Club Brugge earned a dramatic 3-3 draw against Atletico Madrid in their Champions League playoff first leg on Wednesday, with Christos Tzolis scoring a late equaliser after an own goal had briefly put the visitors ahead.
Atletico Strike First
Atletico opened the scoring in rainy conditions. Joaquin Seys handled the ball while attempting a clearance, allowing Julian Alvarez to convert from the spot following a VAR review. The Spanish side doubled their advantage in first-half stoppage time when Alvarez’s corner found Ademola Lookman, who turned the ball past the Brugge defence.
Brugge Responds After The Break
Brugge hit back immediately in the second half. Raphael Onyedika poked home from close range in the 52nd minute after goalkeeper Jan Oblak saved Nicolo Tresoldi’s initial effort. On the hour mark, Onyedika set up Mamadou Diakhon, whose near-post finish off Tresoldi’s attempted clearance levelled the score at 2-2.
Own Goal Shifts Momentum
The momentum swung again in the 79th minute when Marcos Llorente’s low cross forced Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez to inadvertently turn the ball into his own net, restoring Atletico’s lead at 3-2.
Tzolis Seals Dramatic Late Equaliser
Brugge had the final say in the 89th minute. Christos Tzolis fired a low left-footed shot from Onyedika’s cross. The goal was initially ruled out for offside before VAR confirmed it, sparking jubilant celebrations.The Belgian side will now travel to Madrid next Tuesday for the return leg with the tie finely poised.
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