Diego Simeone admitted he still gets emotional watching Atlético Madrid when they knocked Barcelona out of the Champions League. A 3‑2 aggregate win over the Catalans saw the Spaniards advance to the semifinals for the first time since 2017. Barça had taken the second leg 2‑1 at the Metropolitano, but their effort wasn’t enough.

Simeone praised the impact of Antoine Griezmann, whose season ends with a move to MLS’s Orlando City. He called the forward a ‘genius’ and credited his experience for the decisive moments, including the crucial goal that swung the tie. Griezmann acknowledged two mistakes that led to Barcelona’s goals but said the crowd and quality carried Atlético through.

The win marks Atlético’s fourth semifinal appearance (2014, 2016, 2017, 2026) and the third time they have eliminated Barça from the competition. Simeone insisted his side attacks more than it defends, rejecting the defensive label that often follows them. Next up they will meet the winner of Arsenal‑Sporting, while Barça’s European campaign ends abruptly.

Barcelona’s exit fuels criticism of coach Xavi’s tactics, with former player Stewart Robson lamenting missed chances after Yamal, Ferran Torres and Ademola Lookman scored. The Catalans now turn to La Liga, where the loss could affect their title push. Meanwhile, Atlético’s fans celebrate a historic night that reaffirms the club’s place among Europe’s elite.