Atlético de Madrid secured its first win at Camp Nou under Diego Pablo Simeone, edging closer to the Champions League semifinals. The team blended risk in build-up play with ordered defending, led by Robin Le Normand and Valentín Ruggeri. A rehearsed move led to Cubarsí's expulsion and opened up scoring chances.
Atlético de Madrid defeated Barcelona 0-2 in the Champions League quarterfinal first leg, displaying defensive solidity despite injuries and doubts in the backline. Diego Pablo Simeone praised the collective effort: “We defended orderly so they couldn't progress. It's very difficult against the team playing possibly the best football in Europe along with PSG and Bayern. We did it through collective work.”
Robin Le Normand stepped up as defensive leader, dominating Lewandowski and excelling in crosses and interceptions. He paired initially with Hancko, who twisted his left ankle in minute 30 and is doubtful for Tuesday's return leg, while Marc Pubill substituted but will miss it due to accumulated yellows. Simeone demanded quick adaptation amid Barcelona's pressure.
Valentín Ruggeri, under scrutiny at left-back, withstood Lamine Yamal's challenges and provided his seventh assist of the season with a cross to Sorloth for 0-2. Goalkeeper Musso made key saves on corners, and Marcos Llorente shielded Koke in midfield.
The patched defense held off Barcelona's siege until a rehearsed play involving Julián Álvarez and Giuliano Raspadori drew Cubarsí's expulsion. Simeone noted: “We knew that situation, with their high line, could arise. We were brave to exploit that moment between Julián and Giuliano for the expulsion and then the goal was a cracker.” Atlético scored twice from three shots with efficiency.
