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Johnny Cardoso, Atlético Madrid outlast Tottenham to reach Champions League quarterfinals

The U.S. men’s national team contingent in this season’s UEFA Champions League is down to one.

Johnny Cardoso and Atlético Madrid advanced past EPL side Tottenham 7-5 on aggregate on Wednesday, despite losing their second leg Round of 16 tie by a 3-2 scoreline. Diego Simeone’s squad are now headed to the quarterfinals where they will meet La Liga rivals Barcelona in a two-legged series on April 7 and 14 respectively.

Randal Kolo Muani propelled Tottenham into a 1-0 lead after 30 minutes, heading home Mathys Tel’s cross into the back of the net.

Julian Alvarez drew Atletico level only two minutes into the second half but Tottenham would recapture their lead in the 52nd minute through Xavi Simons’ go-ahead goal.

David Hancko’s near post header after 75 minutes pegged Tottenham back for a second time, but Igor Tudor’s squad would have the final say before stoppage time. Simons’ stepped up from the penalty spot to score his second of the night, giving Tottenham its first win under Tudor in all competitions.

Cardoso played the full 90 minutes in the match, continuing his resurgence in the squad this new year. He will hope to carry over his positive form into the upcoming USMNT window, which features a pair of home friendlies against Belgium and Portugal in Atlanta.

Atlético Madrid will next travel to local rivals Real Madrid on Sunday in both clubs’ final match of March.

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