Champions League Round of 16 Upset: Atletico Madrid Stuns Manchester City 3-1 in First Leg

Atletico Madrid produced one of the Champions League performances of the season tonight, dismantling Manchester City 3-1 at the Wanda Metropolitano to take a commanding lead in their Round of 16 first leg tie.

The Spanish giants, written off by many as underdogs against Pep Guardiola experienced City side, delivered a tactical masterpiece that left the Premier League champions stunned. Goals from Antoine Griezmann, Alvaro Morata, and substitute Joao Felix sealed a memorable victory that puts Atletico in prime position to advance to the quarterfinals.

Diego Simeone men took the lead in the 23rd minute when Griezmann capitalized on a defensive miscommunication between Ruben Dias and goalkeeper Ederson. The French striker pounced on a loose ball in the box, sliding home from close range to send the Metropolitano into raptures.

City equalized just before halftime through Erling Haaland trademark finish, but any hopes of seizing momentum were quickly dashed. Morata restored Atletico lead seven minutes into the second half, heading home from Marcos Llorente perfectly weighted cross.

The defining moment came in the 78th minute when Felix, introduced as a substitute, curled a sublime effort into the top corner from the edge of the area. The goal was a thing of beauty and effectively sealed the victory, with City unable to mount a response despite throwing everything forward in the final stages.

Simeone, known for his pragmatic approach, had crafted the perfect game plan to neutralize City attacking threats. Atletico pressed high when City had possession in their own half but remained compact and disciplined when the visitors advanced into the final third.

The result represents a significant blow to City European ambitions and adds pressure on Guardiola ahead of the second leg at the Etihad Stadium. The Premier League leaders will need to overturn a two-goal deficit on March 9th if they are to progress to the next round.

For Atletico, the victory represents vindication of Simeone methods and provides genuine hope of reaching another Champions League semifinal. The Spanish side will travel to Manchester next month with confidence and the luxury of knowing they can afford to lose by a single goal and still advance.