Atletico Madrid scores early and beats Dortmund 2-1 in Spain

Atletico Madrid seized a crucial 2-1 victory at home against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-finals, gaining a slim advantage ahead of the return leg at Signal Iduna Park.

The opening goal came early in the 4th minute when a moment of hesitation from Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel led to a swift interception by Atletico’s Rodrigo de Paul, who clinically dispatched the ball into the net.

Atletico doubled their lead in the 30th minute after a collision between Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck allowed Alvaro Morata to set up Antoine Griezmann, who cleverly fed Samuel Lino for an unmarked finish into the bottom corner.

More on this topic:

David penalty leaves Real Madrid empty-handed in Lille

Borussia Dortmund mounted a late comeback attempt, with Julian Brandt orchestrating an attacking move that found Sebastien Aler in the penalty area. Despite the efforts of Atletico’s Cesar Azpilicueta, Aler managed to fire home a goal with a decisive strike in the 81st minute.

With the tie delicately poised, both teams will anticipate a fiercely contested second leg as they vie for a place in the Champions League semi-finals.