Atletico Madrid seized control of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie with a commanding 2-0 first-leg victory over 10-man Barcelona on Wednesday.
Goals from Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth punished Barcelona after defender Pau Cubarsi was sent off for bringing down Giuliano Simeone when through on goal.
Alvarez curled home the resulting free-kick before Sorloth doubled the advantage with 20 minutes remaining, giving Diego Simeone’s side a strong platform ahead of the second leg.
Red Card Turns the Tie
Barcelona had been on top in the all-Spanish clash at Camp Nou before Cubarsi’s dismissal shifted momentum decisively in Atletico’s favour.
Despite early pressure, including lively displays from Marcus Rashford and Lamine Yamal, the hosts failed to capitalise before going a man down.
Atletico goalkeeper Juan Musso denied Rashford on multiple occasions, while a goal from the England forward was ruled out for offside.
Simeone’s Side in Control
Atletico, managed by Diego Simeone, are chasing its first Champions League title, having previously lost finals in 2014 and 2016 to Real Madrid.
“We have things to improve and learn from… we’re happy for the win, but there’s a long way to go,” said Antoine Griezmann.
“We are very far from the semis; we’re 90 or more minutes away… we’re confident but keeping our feet on the ground.”
Barcelona Face Uphill Battle
Barcelona, who last won the competition in 2015, must now produce a major comeback in Madrid to keep their hopes alive.
“It will be tough there, but if anyone can do it, it’s us,” said defender Ronald Araujo.
Coach Hansi Flick criticised VAR decisions, particularly the red card incident and a potential handball involving Atletico’s Marc Pubill.
“The VAR was very focused today for Atletico,” Flick said.
Simeone, however, described the officiating decision as “common sense”.
Atletico’s victory follows their recent Copa del Rey success over Barcelona, marking another blow for the Catalan side in what has become an intense rivalry over recent weeks.
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