Atletico Madrid secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash on Wednesday. The Spanish giants took an early lead through Rodrigo De Paul’s fifth-minute strike, capitalizing on a defensive error by Dortmund’s Ian Maatsen. Samuel Lino doubled Atletico’s advantage in the 27th minute after another Dortmund defensive lapse, with Mats Hummels’ misdirected header setting up the Brazilian forward.
Despite Dortmund’s improved performance in the second half, Atletico held on to their lead, with goalkeeper Jan Oblak making several crucial saves. Sebastien Haller pulled one back for the German side in the 81st minute, but it proved to be a consolation as Atletico emerged victorious.
The victory gives Atletico a slight advantage heading into the second leg in Dortmund next week. However, Dortmund’s late goal and improved second-half display suggest that the tie is far from over.
Atletico’s high press and aggressive approach proved too much for Dortmund in the opening stages. De Paul’s early goal set the tone for the match, and Lino’s second goal further solidified Atletico’s dominance. Dortmund struggled to find their rhythm and create clear-cut chances, with Oblak rarely tested in the first half.
Dortmund coach Edin Terzic made changes at halftime, bringing on Julian Brandt for Felix Nmecha in search of more attacking spark. The move paid off to some extent, as Dortmund improved their possession and created more chances. However, Oblak remained a formidable presence in the Atletico goal, denying Niclas Fuellkrug and Jadon Sancho.
Haller’s late goal gave Dortmund a lifeline, but Atletico held on for the win. Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Brandt both hit the woodwork in the closing stages, but it was not enough to prevent Dortmund from suffering their first away defeat in four months.
The victory is a significant step for Atletico, who are aiming to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2017. However, Dortmund’s second-half performance suggests that the tie is still very much in the balance.
