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Saul’s sensational solo strike sinks Bayern

Atletico Madrid once again demonstrated their ability to blunt an attacking opponent as they scored a 1-0 win over Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal match in Madrid on Wednesday.

Saul Niguez goes past Bayern Munich's Xabi Alonso before scoring the first goal for Atletico Madrid.
Saul Niguez goes past Bayern Munich's Xabi Alonso before scoring the first goal for Atletico Madrid. Reuters / Sergio Perez
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A superb solo effort by Saul Niguez in the 12th minute of the tie separated the two sides who will face each other on Tuesday for the second leg in Munich.

The match was billed as a clash of contrasting philosophies with Atletico’s resolute defence matching Bayern’s attacking prowess. However, it was Atletico which was quicker off the blocks.

Niguez showed sublime dribbling skills to get past four Bayern defenders before coolly curling a left-footed shot past the diving Manuel Neuer in the bottom right corner.

Despite dominating possession, Bayern struggled to create enough chances as Atletico’s defence stood firm. The closest the German champions came to equalising was when David Alaba’s thunderous left foot strike from 35 yards hit the underside of the bar.

Atletico could have put the match beyond the grasp of Bayern in the closing moments of the tie.

Fernando Torres had a great chance to increase Atletico’s lead after a A fine through-ball by Antoine Griezmann. Torres managed to beat Neuer only to see his strike hit the post. Neuer then saved Koke's follow-up effort.

Bayern boss Pep Guardiola said his side had paid a heavy price for a slow start.

“We had talked before the game about how Atletico tend to start well. It is not a great result for us. It is always unpleasant to have not scored an away goal but we still have 90 minutes,” he said.

Niguez termed his goal as the most beautiful and most important goal of his career.

While Bayern host Atletico for the return leg on Tuesday, Real Madrid will host Manchester City for their second leg encounter on Wednesday.
 

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