Borussia Dortmund Stages Stunning Comeback to Defeat Atlético Madrid in Champions League Thriller

Borussia Dortmund secured a thrilling 4-2 victory over Atlético Madrid in the quarter, final, second, leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final matchup at Signal Iduna Park on Tuesday night. The German side advanced to the semi-finals with a 5-4 aggregate win, reaching the last four of Europe's premier club competition for the first time since 2013.

Dortmund took a commanding 2-0 lead in the first half through goals from Julian Brandt and Ian Maatsen. However, Atlético fought back early in the second half, leveling the tie with an own goal from Mats Hummels and a strike from substitute Ángel Correa.

Undeterred, Dortmund responded with two goals in quick succession to retake the lead. Niclas Füllkrug equalized on aggregate in the 74th minute before Marcel Sabitzer scored what proved to be the winner just three minutes later, sending the home crowd into rapturous celebrations.

Why this matters: Dortmund's stunning comeback victory marks a significant achievement for the club, as they have struggled in recent years to replicate their past success in the Champions League. The win also sets up a mouthwatering semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain, pitting Dortmund against one of the tournament favorites led by star forward Kylian Mbappé.

The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams displaying their attacking prowess and defensive vulnerabilities. Dortmund's fast-paced, high-pressing style caused problems for Atlético's usually resolute defense, while the Spanish side's quick counterattacks kept the game in the balance until the final whistle.

Dortmund coach Edin Terzić praised his team's resilience and character after the match, saying, "We showed great mentality and fought until the end. The boys never gave up, even when Atlético came back into the game. This is a special night for everyone associated with the club."

Atlético manager Diego Simeone acknowledged Dortmund's superiority on the night, stating, "They were the better team and deserved to go through. We had our chances in the first leg but didn't take them, and tonight we paid the price. I wish Dortmund the best of luck in the semi, finals."

Dortmund will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals, with the first leg scheduled for April 30 at Signal Iduna Park and the return leg on May 7 at the Parc des Princes. The winner of the tie will advance to the Champions League final at Wembley Stadium in London on June 1.

Key Takeaways

• Dortmund beat Atlético 4-2 (5-4 agg) to reach UCL semi-finals for 1st time since 2013.
• Dortmund took 2-0 lead, Atlético equalized, but Dortmund scored twice late to win.
• Dortmund's comeback victory sets up semi-final clash with tournament favorites PSG.
• Dortmund coach Terzić praised team's resilience, Atlético coach Simeone acknowledged Dortmund's superiority.
• Dortmund-PSG semi-final first leg on April 30, return leg on May 7, final on June 1.