Barça crash out

TWO goals from Antoine Griezmann, one in each half, sent favourites Barcelona out of the Champions League on Wednesday April 14.

Griezmann’s first half header leveled the tie on aggregate, and despite Barcelona pressure in the second they held firm until Felipe Luis raced away to win the 88th minute penalty that sealed victory for Atletico Madrid.

Barcelona did not look like their usual selves following three league games without a win, and they created few clear-cut chances with Lionel Messi and Neymar particularly anonymous. 

It is only the second time in eight years that they have failed to reach the semi-finals.

Bayern Munich also progressed to the semi-finals following a 2-2 draw with Benfica at the Stadium of Light.

Raul Jimenez put Benfica ahead before Arturo Vidal banged in a cracking volley towards the end of the first half.

After the break, Thomas Müller scored from a Javi Martinez header to knock the Portuguese side out 3-2 on aggregate despite a superb late equalizer from Talisca.

The draw for the semi-finals takes place on Friday April 15, with Manchester City and Real Madrid joining Atletico and Bayern in the pot.