Alexander Sørloth delivered a masterclass performance on Tuesday night. His blistering hat-trick secured a decisive 4-1 victory over Club Brugge. Consequently, this critical win keeps the Atlético Madrid Champions League campaign alive and thriving.
The Spanish giants advanced 7-4 on aggregate. They have officially booked their ticket to the tournament’s Round of 16.
Atlético Madrid Champions League Dominance Continues
This commanding triumph highlights a remarkable European pedigree. Furthermore, the squad is now unbeaten in regulation time across their last 20 knockout fixtures.
That impressive historic run includes 13 victories and seven draws. This is significant because it cements their reputation as one of Europe’s most difficult teams to eliminate.
Their tactical discipline ultimately suffocated the Belgian visitors. Whenever Club Brugge threatened a comeback, veteran goalkeeper Jan Oblak stood tall to deny them.
How Sørloth Dismantled Club Brugge
The hosts ruthlessly seized control during the second half. Johnny Cardoso shattered the rising tension with a stunning long-range strike to regain the lead.
From there, Sørloth completely took over the narrative.
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He finished a slick team move involving substitutes Antoine Griezmann and Ademola Lookman.
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He secured his hat-trick from a late corner kick to permanently bury the tie.
This late offensive surge erased the severe anxiety of a shaky first half.
Earlier in the match, Sørloth opened the scoring by outmaneuvering defender Brandon Mechele. Meanwhile, Brugge briefly sparked real panic just before the halftime whistle. Mechele cleverly flicked a corner toward Joel Ordóñez, who dramatically leveled the aggregate score.
Oblak then produced a crucial save against Hugo Vetlesen. This vital stop kept the scoreline balanced, setting the stage for Atlético’s second-half explosion.
Looking Ahead: The Round of 16
With Club Brugge eliminated, formidable European opponents await the Spanish side.
The highly anticipated draw takes place this Friday. Atlético will face either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur. Given their devastating attacking form, neither English club will be eager to draw them.
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