Club Brugge defeated Atalanta 3-1, progressing to the Champions League last 16. Talbi’s brace and Mignolet’s heroics secured the win for the Belgian side.
Club Brugge secured a place in the Champions League last 16 after defeating Atalanta 3-1 in the second leg of their knockout phase playoff in Italy. The Belgian side’s impressive first-half performance, coupled with a strong defensive effort in the second half, saw them advance 5-2 on aggregate. The match took place at Gewiss Stadium.
First-Half Blitz
Club Brugge started the game strongly, with Chemsdine Talbi scoring twice in the first half. Talbi’s first goal came within the opening two minutes, giving his team an early lead. He later added a second from close range after Christos Tzolis’ shot was parried into his path. Ferran Jutgla further extended Brugge’s lead with a well-taken goal just before halftime, capping off a counter-attack.
Atalanta’s Second-Half Response
Atalanta attempted to mount a comeback in the second half. Ademola Lookman, who came on as a substitute at halftime, scored within seconds of the restart, providing a glimmer of hope for the Italian side. Atalanta pushed forward, and their efforts led to a penalty after a VAR check. However, Simon Mignolet, Club Brugge’s goalkeeper, saved Lookman’s penalty, effectively thwarting Atalanta’s chances of a comeback.
Mignolet’s Heroics
Mignolet’s performance was crucial to Club Brugge’s victory. He made several important saves throughout the match, including denying Lookman from the penalty spot. His contributions ensured that Atalanta’s comeback efforts were kept at bay.
Late Drama
The match concluded with Atalanta reduced to ten men after Rafael Toloi received a red card in the 87th minute for a foul on Maxim de Cuyper.
Match Summary
Club Brugge’s victory adds to a disappointing night for Italian football, following AC Milan’s exit from the Champions League earlier in the day. The Belgian side now progresses to the last 16 of the competition. The draw for the next round will take place on Friday, determining whether Club Brugge will face Aston Villa or Lille in the next month.
Key moments
- Chemsdine Talbi scored Club Brugge’s fastest goal in the competition after two minutes.
- Simon Mignolet saved Ademola Lookman’s penalty in the second half.
- Rafael Toloi received a red card for shoving Maxim de Cuyper.
Club Brugge previously won the first leg against Atalanta 2-1 and secured their first away win against an Italian club in European competition since October 2003.
Sources: https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/champions-league/uefa-champions-league-club-brugge-knocks-out-atalanta-chemsdine-talibi-latest-ucl-news-updates/article69236825.ece
https://www.goal.com/en-in/lists/atalanta-out-champions-league-simon-mignolet-saves-ademola-lookman-penalty-club-brugge/bltb3e8fc51e303055e
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/cn93r7y1qyet