The Champions League last 16 kicked off with a bang on Tuesday, with Real Madrid securing a hard-fought 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid, while Arsenal and Aston Villa scored impressive victories over PSV Eindhoven and Club Brugge, respectively.
Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: A Thrilling Derby
The Madrid derby lived up to its billing, with Real Madrid edging Atletico Madrid 2-1 in a thrilling encounter. Rodrygo Goes opened the scoring for Real Madrid in the fourth minute, dribbling in from the right and placing a shot inside the far post.
Atletico Madrid gradually gained control and leveled the score in the 32nd minute, courtesy of a stunning curling shot from Julian Alvarez.
However, Real Madrid restored their lead in the 55th minute, thanks to a brilliant goal from Brahim Diaz, who shimmying past a challenge and curled a shot inside the far post.
“For a moment we had the game under control, but we knew that it would not be an easy match, because they were at home and they have great players,” Alvarez told Movistar after the match.
“But we know there are 90 minutes to go… it’s one goal, and another game, at home with our fans.”
Arsenal vs PSV Eindhoven: Gunners Run Riot
Arsenal secured an emphatic 7-1 win over PSV Eindhoven, all but ensuring their quarter-final berth. Jurrien Timber headed Arsenal into the lead in the 18th minute, followed by goals from Ethan Nwaneri, Mikel Merino, Martin Odegaard, Leandro Trossard, and Riccardo Calafiori.
PSV Eindhoven’s lone goal came from a Noa Lang penalty, but it was too little, too late, as Arsenal’s attack proved too potent for the Dutch side.
“We were fluid. We had enthusiasm, the drive and the hunger.” Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice told Amazon Prime. “We need to keep pushing as a team with the mentality.”
Aston Villa vs Club Brugge: Villans Secure Commanding Win
Aston Villa secured a commanding 3-1 win over Club Brugge, thanks to goals from Leon Bailey, an own goal from Brandon Mechele, and a penalty from Marco Asensio.
Club Brugge had leveled the score through a Maxim De Cuyper goal, but Aston Villa’s late surge sealed the win, putting them in a strong position to advance to the quarter-finals.
“I am happy but calm, We are not in the quarter-finals. There are still 90 minutes to play and we are ready in case we need extra time and a penalty shoot-out because I know how many difficulties there can be in each match.” Unai Emery in post match.
Borussia Dortmund vs Lille: BVB Held to Draw
Borussia Dortmund was held to a 1-1 draw by Lille, with Karim Adeyemi opening the scoring for the home team in the 22nd minute. However, Lille gained the initiative in the second half and equalized through a Hakon Haraldsson goal in the 68th minute.
The Champions League action continues on Wednesday, with four more matches scheduled, including Liverpool vs Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen, and Barcelona vs Benfica.
