Atletico Madrid managed to secure a 2-1 victory against Borussia Dortmund during their Champions League quarter-final games’ initial leg on Wednesday. In their quest for their first semi-final position in seven years, Atletico Madrid bombarded the visitors with aggressive pressing play which paid dividends after just four minutes when Gregor Kobel, Dortmund’s goalkeeper, hesitated a pass to Ian Maatsen. This allowed Rodrigo De Paul to intervene and score the first goal.
Unable to secure possession, Dortmund remained in their half of the field, which led to another goal for Madrid following a defensive blunder. The second goal was netted by Samuel Lino in the 32nd minute, who incidentally will sit out the upcoming second leg due to a booking. Lino put in a great effort to score another goal at the far post in the 75th minute but was spectacularly denied by Kobel’s brilliant save. However, Dortmund made a comeback six minutes later to lessen the score deficit thanks to Sebastien Haller, thus strengthening their position for the return match next Tuesday. Towards the end, Dortmund were close to equalising but they hit the post twice.