Real Madrid still have the chance to become the first side to retain the Champions League. Toni Kroos and Co. beat city rivals Athletico 1-0 on Wednesday night to reach the last four of the competition.
Javier Hernandez scored an 88th minute winner for Real, which gave them their first victory over Diego Simeone’s side since last year’s Champions League final, which they won 4-1 after extra time.
Busy night for Brych
German referee Felix Brych took charge of the game and he had a busy night. The game was constantly broke up by fouls, which meant that free flowing football was difficult. He sent off Athletico’s Arda Turan in the 76th minute for a second bookable offence. The volume of fouls was in sharp contrast to chances: Cristiano Ronaldo had the best chance in the first half but was thwarted by Jan Oblak.
Toni Kroos impresses
Match winner Hernandez could have put the hosts in front shortly after the break after great work from Isco but he couldn’t quite get the right contact on his effort. Pepe also had a great chance to score. Toni Kroos impressed for Real; Sami Khedia was an unused substitute.
Juve complete the line-up
Juventus put in an impressive defensive performance as they reached the last four of the Champions League for the first time in 12 years. Having won the first leg of their tie against Monaco 1-0 in Turin, they battled hard and picked up a 0-0 draw in France this evening.
The draw for the semi-finals will be made on Friday in Nyon.