Atletico Madrid secured an important victory in the Champions League quarter-final after beating Borussia Dortmund 2-1 on Wednesday in the first leg of the tie. At the Wanda Metropolitano stadium, Atletico took a two-goal lead in the first half, scored by Argentine Rodrigo de Paul and Brazilian Samuel Lino, before Dortmund responded with a goal in the second half by substitute Ivorian Sebastian Haller. Dortmund had more ball possession in the first half, but Atletico dominated offensively and capitalized on defensive errors to take a 2-0 lead before Dortmund began their late offensive push.
In the second half, Dortmund asserted themselves more and seemed determined to narrow the gap to maintain their hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals of the tournament for the first time since 2013, which they successfully achieved through Haaland's goal in the 81st minute. Additionally, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel shone by making several crucial saves in the second half, preventing Atletico from achieving a bigger result. The second leg between the two teams will take place at Dortmund's stadium next Tuesday.