Champions League
Atletico Madrid Joins UCL Quarter-finalists After Dramatic Win Over Inter Milan
Atletico Madrid secured their place in the quarter-finals after a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout victory over Inter Milan.
The match marked the end of Inter’s impressive 13-match winning streak and unbeaten start to 2024, as Diego Simeone’s side displayed resilience and determination to overcome their strong opponents.
The second leg clash started, with Inter holding a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg. Atletico wasted no time in posing a threat to Inter’s defence, with Samuel Lino and Alvaro Morata testing Inter’s goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, early on.
However, it was Inter who struck first through Federico Dimarco, extending their aggregate lead. Antoine Griezmann’s brilliant finish soon levelled the score, setting the stage for a pulsating second half.
The intensity continued in the second half, with both teams creating chances and testing each other’s defences.
Substitute Memphis Depay scored a crucial goal to level the aggregate score before Rodrigo Riquelme missed a golden opportunity to secure victory in regular time.
The match went into extra time, with both teams pushing for a decisive goal.
As the tension continued, the tie eventually went to penalties, where Atletico emerged victorious after Jan Oblak’s heroics in goal. The win moved Atletico into the quarter-finals and also highlighted their impressive home form at the Estadio Metropolitano, where they have been a formidable force under Simeone’s guidance.
