Uefa Champions League: Dortmund, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and Lazio Secure Last-16 Spots

By Score More Staff 

The UEFA Champions League witnessed intense clashes as Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and Lazio secured their places in the last-16 stage of the competition.

 

Dortmund Triumph in ‘Group of Death’

Borussia Dortmund emerged victorious in the so-called ‘group of death’ with a 3-1 win over AC Milan. Marco Reus, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, and Karim Adeyemi scored crucial goals, securing Dortmund’s spot in the last 16. Despite a goal from Samuel Chukwueze for Milan, Dortmund’s win propelled them to the top of Group F.

Dortmund coach Edin Terzic acknowledged the challenge, stating, “We all remember that when the draw was made this was called the group of death.”

Mbappe’s Late Heroics Salvage Draw for PSG

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) faced a tough battle against Newcastle United but managed to secure a 1-1 draw. Kylian Mbappe’s controversial penalty in the 98th minute kept PSG in contention for the last 16. The decision sparked post-match debate, with Newcastle manager Eddie Howe expressing frustration over the VAR-awarded spot-kick.

Barcelona’s Comeback Seals Last-16 Berth

Barcelona showcased resilience as they came from behind to beat Porto 2-1, securing their place in the knockout rounds for the first time in three seasons. The victory marked a significant moment for the club in the European competition’s return.

Atletico Madrid’s Redemption with Feyenoord Victory

Atletico Madrid, after a disappointing exit in the previous season’s group stage, redeemed themselves by beating Feyenoord 3-1. Two own goals contributed to Atletico’s triumph, earning them a spot in the last 16. Lazio also secured their advancement by defeating Celtic 2-0.

City’s Foden Inspires Comeback

In Group G, Manchester City’s Phil Foden played a pivotal role in a second-half comeback against Leipzig. Trailing 2-0 at halftime, City turned the game around with Foden scoring one goal and assisting in two more. The 3-2 victory maintained City’s unbeaten home record in the Champions League since 2018.

Manager Pep Guardiola praised the team’s reaction, stating, “The team runs and fights and has spirit.” City and Leipzig had already qualified for the last 16, with City topping the group for the seventh consecutive season.

As the group stage approaches its conclusion, the Champions League continues to deliver thrilling encounters, setting the stage for further excitement in the knockout rounds.

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