Champions League Results 2020: Qualified Teams After Wednesday Round-of-16 Ties
Mar 11, 2020
Atletico Madrid's Spanish striker Alvaro Morata (R) celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the UEFA Champions league Round of 16 second leg football match between Liverpool and Atletico Madrid at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on March 11, 2020. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO / AFP) (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)
Liverpool crashed out of the UEFA Champions League after losing 3-2 after extra time against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday at Anfield.
The result allowed the La Liga giants to advance 4-2 on aggregate, with the holders running out of steam in the last 16.
Paris Saint-Germain eliminated Borussia Dortmund 3-2 on aggregate after winning 2-0 in the French capital.
Atletico and PSG join RB Leipzig and Atalanta in the next round after they knocked out Tottenham Hotspur and Valencia, respectively, on Tuesday.
Wednesday's Results
Liverpool 2-3 Atletico (Atleti win 4-2 on aggregate)
PSG 2-0 BVB (PSG win 3-2 on aggregate)
Wednesday Recap
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Diego Simeone, Manager of Atletico Madrid celebrates his sides third goal during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg match between Liverpool FC and Atletico Madrid at Anfield on March 11, 2020 in Liverpool, Unit
Liverpool couldn't find a way into the quarter-finals against a dogged Atleti team intent on frustrating the Premier League leaders.
Diego Costa almost shocked Anfield with an opener in the first minute, but the striker's effort went the wrong side of the post.
Liverpool put their foot down on the accelerator in response, and Diego Simeone's men appeared happy to slow the game down to a walking pace when possible.
Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane both were busy in the final third, but the opener came from an unlikely source when Georginio Wijnaldum headed home two minutes before the interval.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain provided the perfect cross for the Netherlands international, and the midfielder's powerful header beat Jan Oblak.
Andrew Robertson's second-half header rattled the Atletico crossbar with the goal at his mercy, and the Scot went close once again with 10 minutes remaining, but Liverpool's constant pressure failed to pay dividends.
The game went into extra time with the aggregate score at 1-1, and it seemed Liverpool would advance when Roberto Firmino quickly found the back of the net.
However, a mistake from Reds goalkeeper Adrian opened the door for Marcos Llorente, and the Atleti substitute found the bottom corner to level the tie once again.
A counter-attack from the visitors helped Llorente to his brace, and Alvaro Morata scored in the final seconds to secure a historic night for Simeone's battling side.
PSG controlled the second leg against BVB at the Parc des Princes and impressively overturned the 2-1 first-leg deficit.
The match was played before a near-empty stadium because of measures to prevent further spread of the coronavirus.
Kylian Mbappe only started on the bench after suffering with a throat infection, but Neymar was enough to inspire PSG to victory.
The Brazilian headed home after 28 minutes when BVB failed to defend Angel Di Maria's corner, and it was 2-0 after Juan Bernat flicked the ball past Roman Burki just before half-time.
PARIS, FRANCE - MARCH 11: (FREE FOR EDITORIAL USE) In this handout image provided by UEFA, Neymar of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates victory after the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund at P
Dortmund showed good intentions in the second half without fully concerning the hosts. PSG were happy to keep the ball with a slim aggregate advantage in their pockets.
The visitors failed in their efforts to force the tie into extra time, and BVB's Emre Can was shown a red card after pushing Neymar to the floor in the closing moments.
Atletico Madrid Stun Liverpool in Extra Time, Advance to UCL Quarter-Finals
Mar 11, 2020
Atletico Madrid's Spanish midfielder Marcos Llorente celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the UEFA Champions league Round of 16 second leg football match between Liverpool and Atletico Madrid at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on March 11, 2020. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Liverpool's defence of the UEFA Champions League trophy is over after Atletico Madrid won 3-2 in the second leg of the last 16 at Anfield on Wednesday night.
Substitute Marcos Llorente scored twice in extra time to bring Atleti back from 2-0 down after goals from Georginio Wijnaldum and Roberto Firmino. Another sub, Alvaro Morata, sealed a 4-2 aggregate win for the Madrid club when he beat Liverpool deputy goalkeeper Adrian, who struggled mightily in relief of Alisson Becker, in the 121st minute.
Rather than being cautious with his team selection, Jurgen Klopp left holding midfielder Fabinho on the bench and started Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Wijnaldum alongside Jordan Henderson.
Both Wijnaldum and Oxlade-Chamberlain went close early, with the former glancing a header narrowly wide, while the latter saw his shot from distance parried by Jan Oblak. Wijnaldum and Oxlade-Chamberlain posing a threat was a precursor of things to come.
By contrast, Atleti were content to sit deep and defend in numbers, but the away side did look dangerous from set pieces. Felipe nearly scored a vital away goal when the Brazilian centre-back beat his marker to the near post but headed behind.
The chance was a rare bright spot for the visitors before Liverpool continued to up the ante, with Oxlade-Chamberlain playing a key role. The former Arsenal man was running behind Mohamed Salah whenever the Egypt international forward dropped off the front.
Oxlade-Chamberlain was moving freely because Saul Niguez was playing on the left of a midfield quartet. Normally a central player, the man who scored Atleti's winner in the first leg wasn't tracking runners out wide.
Saul was found wanting again two minutes before the break when he let Oxlade-Chamberlain go on the overlap, and the latter crossed brilliantly for Wijnaldum to plant an emphatic header beyond Oblak.
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 11, 2020
Wijnaldum's brace sparked last season's thrilling comeback against Barcelona in the semi-final, and the Dutchman's latest goal had Liverpool primed for another memorable recovery.
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 11, 2020
Oxlade-Chamberlain continued to cause problems after the restart, playing Sadio Mane in with a deft pass. The latter's effort was saved by Oblak, who didn't know the offside flag had been raised.
The next time Oxlade-Chamberlain got on the ball he fizzed in a low shot Oblak just about clawed away at full stretch. Atleti simply had no answers for Oxlade-Chamberlain's movement, touch or vision.
Looking to shore things up, Diego Simeone withdrew striker Diego Costa for ex-Real Madrid defensive midfielder Llorente. The intent was clear: Atletico were in full rearguard mode.
Atleti's defensive shape almost crumbled immediately when Trent Alexander-Arnold crossed for Firmino, whose prodded attempt called Oblak into action again. At the other end, Liverpool stand-in goalkeeper Adrian ominously spilled a shot from Joao Felix and just about beat Angel Correa to the rebound.
Liverpool then spurned a terrific chance to go in front when Salah's deflected shot drifted into the path of Andy Robertson. Yet, the left-back crashed his header off the bar under pressure from Kieran Trippier.
Klopp changed things up entering the final 10 minutes by replacing the impressive Oxlade-Chamberlain with James Milner. His cross for Wijnaldum allowed the midfielder to head back for Mane, whose overhead kick sailed over.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain made more interceptions (3) than any other Liverpool player during his time on the pitch.
A late winner seemed inevitable once Salah wriggled through three challenges before sending an effort toward the top corner. Yet, the shot flew barely inches over the bar with Oblak rooted to the spot.
Diego Simeone and the rest of the members of the Atleti bench thought the tie was won when Saul headed in deep into stoppage time. However, the midfielder and several of his team-mates were obviously offside.
Simeone swapped out the tiring Trippier for Sime Vrsaljko to begin extra time. The pattern of play stayed the same, though, with the hosts owning the ball and quickly pouring forward in numbers.
More chances came and went, with Oblak denying Wijnaldum, who crossed on the rebound for Firmino, but the Reds' No. 9 headed wide. The same combination paid dividends seconds later when Frimino met another Wijnaldum cross but headed against the post before following up to tap in.
20 - Roberto Firmino has scored his first goal at Anfield in 20 games in all competitions, since netting vs Porto in April 2019 - 337 days ago. Overdue.
It should have been the winner Liverpool merited for their endeavour, but Adrian's poor ball out went straight to Felix, who teed up Llorente, and the substitute angled a shot into the bottom corner.
Buoyed by the goal, Simeone changed things up top, introducing Alvaro Morata for Felix. Morata's pass found Llorente on the break, and the 25-year-old had the beating of Adrian from distance again.
In a move that was peak Simeone, the Atleti chief subbed Correa for an extra centre-back, Jose Gimenez, to start the second period of extra time. To their credit, Atletico still fashioned a third goal when Morata broke free late on and coolly slotted past the hapless Adrian.
Liverpool will rue his struggles, but Klopp's men can now at least focus fully on wrapping up a first top-flight league title since 1990. Meanwhile, 2014 and 2016 finalists Atleti have earned another famous win in Europe and get to continue their quest to finally win this trophy for the first time in club history.
What's Next?
Liverpool face Everton in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Monday, while Atleti are away to Athletic Bilbao in La Liga the day before.
Neymar, PSG Top Dortmund in Leg 2, Advance to Champions League Quarterfinals
Mar 11, 2020
PARIS, FRANCE - MARCH 11: (FREE FOR EDITORIAL USE) In this handout image provided by UEFA, Neymar of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates with Marquinhos after scoring his team's first goal during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund at Parc des Princes on March 11, 2020 in Paris, France. The match is played behind closed doors as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). (Photo by UEFA - Handout/UEFA via Getty Images)
Paris Saint-Germain defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-0on Wednesday and advanced to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals 3-2on aggregate.
Neymar broke the deadlock after 28 minutes when he took advantage of poor marking from Angel Di Maria's corner.
Juan Bernat poked home a second on the stroke of half-time, with Dortmund struggling to match the home side's vigour.
The Germans failed to work their way back into the game in the second half, and the match ended with Emre Can seeing red after pushing Neymar to the floor.
A near-empty stadium welcomed the sides due to measures to prevent an escalation of the coronavirus, but large crowds were present outside the Parc des Princes. Kylian Mbappe started on the bench after dealing with a throat infection.
Despite the game against Dortmund being played behind closed doors, PSG fans showed up to welcome their team pic.twitter.com/QiVTqyQgzr
BVB appeared content to defend their 2-1 lead from the first leg, but this played into PSG's hands as they confidently retained the ball.
The Germans initially appeared dangerous on the counter-attack. Erling Haaland nearly gave the visitors a lead against the run of play, but it was a set piece that provided PSG with a deserved goal.
Neymar was left unmarked from a corner, and the Brazilian icon nodded home from close range with the stationary Dortmund defence contributing to the diving header in the six-yard box.
It was a bad moment for the Bundesliga side. Their lack of discipline was punished, and PSG seemed intent on scoring again.
The Parisians had the control they desired. Jadon Sancho showed bursts of energy, but it wasn't enough to deny a second from PSG just before the interval.
Bernat was in the correct spot in the box after an impressive PSG passing move. The Spain international extended his foot to connect with a delicate touch from Pablo Sarabia's cross, and the ball nestled inside the far post past BVB goalkeeper Roman Burki.
Dortmund were out of the blocks quickly in the second half, desperate to net the goal that would level the score on aggregate.
However, PSG retained possession for long periods with ease, and BVB found it difficult to stretch the game and hurt the French champions.
Mbappe rose from the bench after 64 minutes. Dortmund began to ask questions in the final moments, but they failed to produce their attacking best.
Can was given a red card in the closing stages after pushing Neymar to the floor when the pair squared up to each other, and it was the hosts who were celebrating wildly at the final whistle.
What's Next
BVB welcome Schalke in the Bundesliga on Saturday, while PSG host Nice in Ligue 1 on Sunday.
Kylian Mbappe in PSG Squad for Borussia Dortmund Clash After Coronavirus Testing
Mar 11, 2020
LYON, FRANCE - MARCH 4: Kylian Mbappe of PSG celebrates his third goal during the French Cup semifinal match between Olympique Lyonnais (OL) and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at Groupama Stadium on March 4, 2020 in Decines near Lyon, France. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)
Kylian Mbappe is in the squad for Paris Saint-Germain's UEFA Champions League clash at home to Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday following concerns he may not play due to illness.
PSG announced Wednesday that Mbappe has officially been included in the squad for the second leg of the round-of-16 tie, which sees PSG trailing 2-1 on aggregate:
Paris police confirmed on Monday the round-of-16 second leg at the Parc des Princes will be played behind closed doors, per the Guardian'sMarcus Christenson.
TF1 (h/t Get French Football News) reported Mbappe, 21, had been tested for coronavirus on Tuesday but that the results came back negative. He returned to training on Wednesday morning.
Concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19 have risen in France in recent days. L'Equipe and Le Parisien (h/t Julien Pretot of Reuters, via Eurosport UK) reported the Coupe de la Ligue final between PSG and Lyon—which was scheduled for April 4—was postponed after the clubs chose to not play in an empty stadium.
Thomas Tuchel said on Tuesday that Mbappe had been unable to train for two days because of illness and a decision would be made on Wednesday regarding his involvement against Dortmund:
Neymar's goal wasn't enough to prevent a first-leg defeat in Germany, however, after Erling Haaland hit back to score his second of the match from outside the PSG box (U.S. only):
Les Parisiens are targeting their first Champions League quarter-final berth in four years, having exited at this stage of the competition in each of the past three campaigns.
French football writer Jeremy Smith was in no doubt as to the more valuable piece of PSG's puzzle between world-record signing Neymar and Mbappe, who is seven years his team-mate's junior:
As I discussed with @JohnnyBurrow and @watts_guy on @lovesportradio this week - reputation-wise PSG cannot afford to lose both Neymar and Mbappe this summer. And there's no doubt which is more valuable - both to the team and financially. https://t.co/QBzwNCvHvQ
You mean the match where he lost the ball 31 times and scored a tap-in after Mbappe made the chance for him out of nothing? Neymar has only played 50% of matches since he joined. Would rather have a 21yo who plays every week than a 28yo who is injured/parties more than he plays.
Mbappe has scored 30 goals in 32 total appearances for his club this season and could yet break the career-best tally of 39 goals he managed in 43 outings last term.
PSG will hope their star forward is fit enough to feature from the first whistle in their bid to reverse the deficit against Dortmund, who hope to make the last eight of the Champions League for the first time since 2017.
Dele Alli Says Tottenham Mentality Not 'Strong Enough' After UCL Exit at Leipzig
Mar 11, 2020
LEIPZIG, GERMANY - MARCH 10: Dele Alli of Tottenham Hotspur looks on during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg match between RB Leipzig and Tottenham Hotspur at Red Bull Arena on March 10, 2020 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Pawel Andrachiewicz/PressFocus/MB Media/Getty Images)
Dele Alli has said Tottenham Hotspur's mentality "wasn't strong enough" after they suffered a 3-0 defeat at RB Leipzig on Tuesday that resulted in their exit from the UEFA Champions League round of 16.
Spurs lost 4-0 on aggregate following a 1-0 first-leg defeat at home in February. Jose Mourinho's side are without a win in six games and can no longer win silverware this season having also suffered an FA Cup fifth-round departure against Norwich City on penalties.
Alli told BT Sport (h/t Joe Krishnan of the Evening Standard) after Tuesday's game: "It was the mentality. We were second for a lot of balls. You saw at the start we were bright, then we concede the goals and our mentality wasn't strong enough. You can't blame one person, and I'm not going to single out anyone. It was the whole team, it's not down to one player to stop goals."
Emil Forsberg put the finishing touches on Leipzig's triumph at the Red Bull Arena with his 87th-minute strike, but it was two Marcel Sabitzer goals in the opening 21 minutes that appeared to quell Spurs' threat (U.S. viewers only):
Tottenham attackers Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son have been out because of injury since January and February, respectively. Moussa Sissoko is another long-term absentee, while Steven Bergwijn and Davinson Sanchez were each ruled out of the Leipzig clash with injuries.
Alli added: "We can't use that as an excuse, we still have enough quality on pitch. We are missing good players, but that happens, and when it happens, we have to step up. We haven't done that today. I'm gutted. I have to apologise for the fans for coming all this way and we lose like that. They deserve better."
The England international—who was fielded in an advanced central role at Leipzig in the absence of fit strikers—later took to Twitter to express his disappointment:
Extremely disappointing night. Gutted to be knocked out of the competition we did so well in last year. This one is tough to take but it’s not the time to crumble, we have to re group and focus on the weekend. Thank you to the travelling fans - forever grateful for the support 🙏🏾
Mourinho bemoaned Tottenham's injuries as a major factor in his side's failure to compete after the game, suggesting any team would struggle in the same manner if they lost key players, via Football Daily:
🗣"Imagine Leipzig without Sabitzer, Schick & Werner do you think they would win the way they did? or Liverpool without Salah, Mane, Firmino? Barcelona without Griezmann, Messi, Suarez?"
OptaJoe highlighted Mourinho's current six-match winless run as the longest such drought in his career to date, evidence as to how much the team have struggled without several of their first-team regulars.
Former Manchester City and Netherlands midfielder Nigel de Jong—currently at Qatari club Al Shahaniya—appeared as a beIN Sports pundit and agreed Tottenham didn't have the attitude to overcome Leipzig:
Spurs have scored just five goals during their six-game stretch without a victory, but defence is also a concern after they've kept a single clean sheet across their last 11 outings in all competitions.
The north Londoners host Manchester United on Sunday when they return to the Premier League, hoping to close the four-point gap between them and the Red Devils.
Virgil van Dijk Wants 'Passion and Hard Work' Against 'Fantastic' Atletico
Mar 11, 2020
MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 18: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool FC during the UEFA Champions League match between Atletico Madrid v Liverpool at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano on February 18, 2020 in Madrid Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Virgil van Dijk wants Liverpool to show "a lot of passion and hard work" when they host Atletico Madrid on Wednesday hoping to reverse a 1-0 deficit in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League last 16.
Jurgen Klopp's defending European champions lost 1-0 at the Wanda Metropolitano in late February, their first defeat across all competitions in three months.
Van Dijk, 28, called Atletico "a fantastic side," and he called on Liverpool to rise to the occasion, per Sky Sports:
"We couldn't give any chances away against Barcelona, either. We will go with the same mindset as always. Hopefully win the game and play good football, but first and foremost, we have to deliver a lot of passion and hard work.
"We have to get everyone going from the first second to the last. Things can happen and they could be the better team but we all want to show why we want to go through with our qualities and deserve to be in the next round.
"Atletico will be tough, they are a fantastic side. They are one of the best in how they play. They are aggressive, and they have fantastic players who can hurt you on the break too."
The Reds defender referred back to Liverpool's semi-final comeback win at home to Barcelona last season when they lost 3-0 at the Camp Nou before pulling off a historic upset to win 4-3 on aggregate.
Klopp's side went on to beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in the final at Atletico's home ground and seal their first European title since 2005.
Saul Niguez scored the only goal at the Wanda Metropolitano to give Los Rojiblancos a first-leg advantage over Liverpool last month (U.S. viewers only):
Klopp was defiant in his message following that defeat—the first of three losses in the space of four games for Liverpool—and hinted at the tough test awaiting Diego Simeone's men when they visit Anfield:
Van Dijk added: "It is what it is. We have to deal with that. We have to be grown men about it, take it on the chin and show the world why we deserve to be where we are and why we deserve to still be in the Champions League."
The Merseysiders retain an imperious home record despite the recent drop in form. They're unbeaten in 42 home games—the last time they lost at Anfield was a 2-1 Carabao Cup defeat to Chelsea in September 2018—and Saturday's 2-1 victory over Bournemouth set a new English top-flight record of 22 straight home wins.
Goalkeeper Alisson Becker will miss the second leg due to injury, although Klopp confirmed captain Jordan Henderson will be back to play some role on Wednesday, per Goal's Jack Sear:
Klopp says Henderson is fit to face Atletico. Remains to be seen whether he will be in the first XI or start on the bench. Klopp has made a decision but won't be drawn.
Liverpool dominated with almost 75 per cent of the possession in Madrid but somehow failed to record a shot on target, per WhoScored.com, though Atleti may struggle to implement the same strategy at Anfield.
The Mirror's David Maddock provided comment from Klopp regarding what is required from his side if they're to reach the Champions League quarter-finals for a third consecutive season:
Jurgen Klopp reveals the simple gameplan against Atletico:
"We have to keep them busy in areas they don't want to be busy." #LFC
Liverpool know they must win in order to extend their European campaign—and by at least two goals to advance after 90 minutes—while keeping a clean sheet will be a priority after they failed to score away.
Champions League 2020: Live Stream, Odds for Wednesday's Round-of-16 Matches
Mar 11, 2020
MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 18: (L-R) Georginio Wijnaldum of Liverpool FC, Andy Robertson of Liverpool FC during the UEFA Champions League match between Atletico Madrid v Liverpool at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano on February 18, 2020 in Madrid Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Jordan Henderson and Andy Robertson's return to fitness makes holders Liverpool favourites to overcome a 1-0 deficit and advance past Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League last-16 second leg.
The Reds will need Henderson's drive and tenacity, as well as Robertson's pace and eye for an assist, to break down a formidable Atleti defence at Anfield on Wednesday night.
A similarly tough test awaits Paris Saint-Germain, with the Ligue 1 giants set to be without midfield general Marco Verratti for the second leg against Borussia Dortmund. Les Parisiens trail 2-1 after the first leg, with two-goal hero Erling Braut Haaland the obvious man to watch for the visitors.
The game will be played behind closed doors at the Parc des Princes as part of the French government's response to the outbreak of the coronavirus.
Schedule and Viewing Info
Liverpool vs. Atletico Madrid: 8 p.m. GMT/4 p.m. ET, BT Sport 2/TNT
PSG vs. Borussia Dortmund: 8 p.m. GMT/4 p.m. ET, BT Sport 3
Robertson missed Saturday's 2-1 win over Bournemouth in the Premier League, but the Scotland international's partnership with right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold remains key to Liverpool's chances.
The two have combined for 19 assists in England's top flight but have been quieter in Europe. Robertson has scored one goal and Alexander-Arnold has assisted another.
Andrew Robertson has now provided 17 Premier league assists since the start of last season.
Robertson explained his chances of playing, per MailOnline's Ben Nagle: "Just Friday I overstretched the hamstring, I thought I was fine but the cautious approach was fine and I'll train today."
Atleti enjoyed a lot of success in the first leg using split strikers to press Liverpool's full-backs high up the pitch. If the same thing happens again, Liverpool will lack the guile to force a breakthrough.
It could alternatively come from midfield if skipper Henderson is 100 percent. Manager Jurgen Klopp is being coy about the 29-year-old's involvement: "Hendo is ready but if we do that, I don't know... or maybe I know and I don't say!"
Jordan Henderson: Only Liverpool teammate Roberto Firmino (26) has won possession in the attacking third more times than Henderson (24) in the Premier League this season pic.twitter.com/YfO5BlFMRh
Klopp did confirm goalkeeper Alisson Becker will still miss out with a hip problem. Atleti are sure to test replacement Adrian with the same aerial bombardment that worked during the first leg and led to Saul Niguez scoring following a corner.
Alvaro Morata will be key to the approach, and the centre-forward was held out of training as a precaution, per AS (h/t Connor Dunn of the Liverpool Echo).
Neymar's away goal in Germany means PSG are favoured to make it through. There is no denying the attacking quality of Thomas Tuchel's squad, but Neymar and Co. need to overcome some tough history in this competition.
High-profile failings have become common for Les Parisiens, who blew commanding leads against Barcelona and Manchester United in improbable circumstances. Dortmund can pile on the misery thanks to Haaland's goals and the flair of Jadon Sancho.
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 9, 2020
Sancho has 17 assists to his credit so far this season, including two in this competition. Meanwhile, Haaland has found the net 10 times in the Champions League, twice for Dortmund and eight for Salzburg.
Cutting off the lines of supply to Dortmund's match-winners won't be easy, especially without Verratti and the injured Ander Herrera. Tuchel may well rely on the brawn and defensive nouse of Idrissa Gueye at the heart of the engine room.
Meanwhile, striker Kylian Mbappe tested negative for the coronavirus, according to Bryan Swanson of Sky Sports News. Swanson noted how L'Equipe reported Mbappe was tested after missing training. Mbappe's status for the game is not yet known.
If PSG at least stay even in the midfield battle, Neymar and Edinson Cavani will get the chances they need to send this club through to the last eight.
Top Winners, Losers After Tuesday's Champions League Round-of-16 Leg-2 Results
Mar 10, 2020
Tottenham Hotspur's Portuguese head coach Jose Mourinho looks at his players during the UEFA Champions League football match between Leipzig and Tottenham, in Leipzig, eastern Germany on March 10, 2020. (Photo by Ronny Hartmann / AFP) (Photo by RONNY HARTMANN/AFP via Getty Images)
Jose Mourinho isn't a spent force at the top level in Europe, but his doubters and critics are growing in number after Tottenham Hotspur tumbled out of the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night.
Mourinho's team were beaten 3-0 away by RB Leipzig in the second leg of their last-16 clash. It added another setback for his bid to restore his reputation after being sacked by Manchester United in December 2018.
Those attempts haven't been helped by another exit from the round of 16, albeit one prompted as much by key injuries and the struggles of Hugo Lloris. Even so, it's still the same fate Mourinho and United suffered at the hands of Sevilla two years ago.
Mourinho may not be enjoying life away from Manchester, but Leipzig left-back Angelino is. Dispatched on loan from Manchester City in January, the Spaniard has become a key attacking outlet for Julian Nagelsmann's team, crafting two goals on the night to show City what they're missing.
Angelino and Co. tore through a bewildered Spurs defence undermined by a nightmare showing from goalkeeper Lloris. The Frenchman should have done better to deny both of Marcel Sabitzer's goals in the first half.
Goals weren't a problem for Josip Ilicic and Atalanta, whose first season at this level continues to deliver thrills. The 32-year-old playmaker found the net four times away to Valencia to seal a remarkable 8-4 aggregate triumph for the Champions League debutant.
Tuesday Results
RB Leipzig 3-0 Tottenham (Leipzig win 4-0 on aggregate)
Valencia 3-4 Atalanta (Atalanta win 8-4 on aggregate)
Loser: Jose Mourinho
One more defeat, coupled with Spurs losing their last chance to win a trophy this season, is only going to increase the questions about whether or not Mourinho has lost it.
They are valid questions, even if circumstances have been doing the 57-year-old few favours. Since winning the treble with Inter Milan in 2010, Mourinho has left Real Madrid, Chelsea and United under a cloud.
Any success he brought to those clubs was often marred by the backlash to some of his actions. The public criticism of club-record signing Tanguy Ndombele has worrying echoes of Mourinho eroding the loyalty of his players at other clubs.
History appears to be repeating itself in more ways than one at Tottenham, with Mourinho on a historically woeful run:
6 - José Mourinho is winless in six matches in all competitions (D2 L4) – the longest winless run of his entire managerial career, with tonight being his 935th match. Spiral. pic.twitter.com/Jh4AmBNhqb
Of course, any manager would struggle after losing as many goal threats as Mourinho has recently. Kane and Heung-Min Son both remain sidelined, robbing Spurs of their two premier strikers.
Some help arrived in January, in the form of Steven Bergwijn, but the former PSV Eindhoven forward has now been ruled out for an "extended period" with an ankle problem, per BBC Sport.
Mourinho hasn't exactly been dealt the best hand, but his responses to the growing casualty list have appeared increasingly negative. Rather than finding new sources for goals, maybe even by trusting 18-year-old academy graduate Troy Parrott, Mourinho's solutions have been more about not losing than winning.
The decision to play five centre-backs for Saturday's 1-1 draw away to Burnley sent a clear message about attacking intent or the lack thereof.
Any manager looks good with a full contingent of star players at his disposal. The true tests come when alternatives are needed, when tactical adjustments can make the difference and help overcome superior opposition.
Mourinho's credentials in this area are being seriously questioned for the first time in his career. How he answers will go a long way toward determining his longevity at the top level.
Loser: Hugo Lloris
Speaking of answers, Mourinho deserves a few from Lloris after the veteran stopper let Spurs down in Germany. The 33-year-old reacted weakly when trying to keep out Sabitzer's low shot into the bottom corner on 10 minutes.
Lloris had got down in time to rebuff the shot, but he wasn't strong enough to claw it away. It was a similar story when Sabitzer connected with a header from close range 11 minutes later.
Lloris' struggles are symptomatic of how hard Mourinho has found it to restore some defensive solidity at Tottenham. Loading up the backline with extra numbers hasn't worked, while the Spurs' midfield lacks the aggression and positional awareness to provide a formidable screen.
Those deficiencies mean Lloris is being left to deal with more shots than he should be facing. His meagre response was contrasted sharply by Peter Gulacsi's comfortable time in the Leipzig goal during the tie:
Lloris is still a fine keeper, but he must get better help from those in front of him if he's going to return to his best.
Winner: Angelino
A cursory look at Angelino's nomadic last few months would apparently reveal a player whose career is in transition. He began the season returning to City after the Manchester club exercised a buyback clause to whisk him away from the Netherlands.
Benjamin Mendy's erratic form, combined with an injury to Oleksandr Zinchenko, seemed to make City's starting left-back berth Angelino's to lose. Yet, despite some solid performances, Pep Guardiola was obviously not convinced, and he let the 23-year-old move to Leipzig until the end of the campaign.
Not only does it look like a misstep from defensively short City, Angelino's move also resembles a transfer masterstroke by Leipzig. He bossed Spurs on the left with pace, relentless energy, flair and vision.
Someone in need of defenders is going to buy this Angelino kid...
His most tangible contributions came when he helped tee up two goals for the hosts. The assist for Sabitzer's second capped a terrific first half for the athletic defender:
Angelino continued to terrorise Serge Aurier and Tottenham's right flank after the break. Playing in Emil Forsberg to score Leipzig's third was a fitting way to end a performance that should convince Guardiola he'll need Angelino full-time next season.
Winner: Josip Ilicic
It's hard to think of another marquee talent who has hovered under the radar of top clubs as long as Ilicic. Closer to the end of his career than its prime, the former Palermo and Fiorentina forward has matured into the leading light of an enterprising Atalanta team.
Ilicic underlined his status with a superb, four-goal salvo to see off Los Che's spirited attempt to come back from a 4-1 deficit after the first leg. Valencia had plenty of cutting edge thanks to striker Kevin Gameiro, but Ilicic's touch, acceleration and shooting power made the difference.
The quartet of goals took him to five in this tournament and 21 overall across all competitions so far this season. There's a strong chance Ilicic will pad his tally in a team loaded with match-winners and end product in the final third.
Making a cerebral schemer like Ilicic his conductor-in-chief is further proof of how Gian Piero Gasperini is doing things differently. Most Italian teams are known for their pragmatism, but Gasperini has pieced together a group of free-flowing entertainers no other side will relish being drawn against in the last eight.
Champions League Results 2020: Qualified Teams After Tuesday's Round-of-16 Ties
Mar 10, 2020
Leipzig's Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer (R) celebrates scoring the 2-0 goal with his teammates during the UEFA Champions League football match between RB Leipzig and Tottenham Hotspur, in Leipzig, eastern Germany on March 10, 2020. (Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP) (Photo by ODD ANDERSEN/AFP via Getty Images)
RB Leipzig beat Tottenham Hotspur 3-0 on Tuesday to knock last season's finalists out of the 2020 UEFA Champions League at the Red Bull Arena.
Marcel Sabitzer scored a brace in the first half, while substitute Emil Forsberg added a third late on to complete a 4-0 aggregate win and seal the Bundesliga side's progress.
Serie A club Atalanta are also through to the quarter-finals for the first time. Gian Piero Gasperini's side continued their dream run in the competition with a dramatic 4-3 win at Valencia behind closed doors.
Tuesday's Results
RB Leipzig 3-0 Tottenham (RB Leipzig win 4-0 on aggregate)
Valencia 3-4 Atalanta (Atalanta win 8-4 on aggregate)
Tuesday Recap
Tottenham faced an uphill task against RB Leipzig after losing the first leg in north London 1-0 and went behind on the night with just 10 minutes on the clock.
Timo Werner's shot was blocked and onto the path of Sabitzer on the edge of the penalty area. The Austrian unleashed a powerful effort that goalkeeper Hugo Lloris got a hand to but could not keep out.
Lloris was at fault again for Leipzig's second goal midway through the first half. A mistake from Serge Aurier on the right flank allowed Angelino to cross for Sabitzer to nod past Lloris at his near post.
Darren Lewis at the Daily Mirror criticised Tottenham's defending:
Horrific defending from Spurs. Aurier having one of his more unpredictable evenings. Side lucky not to be 3-0 down. Two-nil bad enough. Lloris surely has to have his near post covered. Whole back line so slow to react to danger. This could still be a hiding - by half time.
Spurs, without injured attackers Harry Kane, Heung-Min Son and Steven Bergwijn, struggled to create chances and never looked like mounting a comeback.
Julian Nagelsmann's side created more chances after the break and sealed an impressive night's work with a low shot from Forsberg.
Elsewhere, Atalanta went through after a thrilling game at the Mestalla Stadium with no fans due to fears over the coronavirus.
The visitors took just three minutes to add to their 4-1 first-leg lead, opening the scoring from the penalty spot through Josip Ilicic after he was clipped by Mouctar Diakhaby.
Italian football writer Carlo Garganese was impressed with the Slovenian's start:
Forget Ronaldo, forget Dybala, forget Immobile...the best player in Italy this season is Josip Ilicic! Another moment of magic to win and then score a penalty #VALATA
Kevin Gameiro pulled one back for Valencia, pouncing on a mistake by Jose Palomino and rounding goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen to make it 1-1.
Yet Diakhaby gave away a second penalty just before half-time for handball, allowing Ilicic to score again from the spot and restore the visitors' lead.
The goals continued to flow in an entertaining second half. Gameiro powered home a cross from Ferran Torres five minutes after the restart for his second of the night.
Torres scored Valencia's third with a neat chip over goalkeeper Marco Sportiello to put the hosts ahead for the first time.
The impressive Ilicic then completed his hat-trick, cutting into the area and rifling a low shot past Cillessen after a quick break:
32y 41d - Atalanta's Josip Iličić has become the oldest player to score an away Champions League hat-trick, aged 32 years and 41 days. Evergreen. pic.twitter.com/1aOlKQxpfn
The 32-year-old made history by finding the top corner to make it 4-3 for Atalanta and becoming the first player to score four away from home in a Champions League knockout tie.
Jurgen Klopp Talks Jordan Henderson, Joao Felix, More Before Atletico UCL Match
Mar 10, 2020
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 10: Jurgen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool speaks to the media during the Liverpool FC press conference at Anfield on March 10, 2020 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. Liverpool FC will face Atletico Madrid in their UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg match on March 11, 2020. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Liverpool have been given a big boost ahead of Wednesday's UEFA Champions League last-16 second leg against Atletico Madrid after manager Jurgen Klopp confirmed captain Jordan Henderson will be fit.
The midfielder has missed Liverpool's last four matches, two of which they have lost, due to a hamstring injury.
Liverpool host Atletico at Anfield on Wednesday needing to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg to keep their hopes alive of successfully defending their Champions Legaue title.
Goalkeeper Alisson will still be absent after missing Saturday's win against Bournemouth with a hip injury, but Klopp confirmed Henderson is available again:
A similarly immaculate performance will be needed from Diego Simeone's side if they are to convert that lead into a quarter-final spot after Wednesday's second leg.
Klopp is acutely aware of the threat posed by the Spanish side and praised the talent of 20-year-old Joao Felix, who has scored twice in three league games since his return from injury:
Klopp asked about Joao Felix
"Wow. young and so skilled, a nice combination. We saw the last game, looked intense after a long break, tomorrow will be too. We need to keep them busy where they don't want to be. He has speed, creativity and a football brain. He can cause probs."
The German manager added that his team will feed off the Anfield crowd in a bid to turn the tie around:
Klopp: "Our crowd will be our advantage and we have to use it with the performance on the pitch. It has to be exceptional because they defend deep and have counter-attack threat. Each player can be dangerous. Set-pieces, an experienced team. They know how to deal with it all."
The 2019-20 campaign is already set to go down in Liverpool history because the Reds will almost certainly end their 30-year wait for a 19th English league title.
There is the potential, though, that the Reds' extraordinary season could end with a slight whimper if they make a premature exit from the Champions League.
In the last two weeks, Liverpool's hopes of emulating Arsenal's 2003-04 Invincibles side or Manchester United's 1998-99 Treble winners have been dashed:
🔘 United’s treble season in 1999 🔘 Arsenal’s invincible season in 2004
