The UEFA Champions League 2023/2024 quarter-finals second leg was filled with intense action, brilliant performances, and unexpected turns of events. This article provides a thorough review of the quarter-finals, focusing on the key moments, standout players, and surprising outcomes.

Borussia Dortmund vs. Atlético de Madrid

Borussia Dortmund managed to edge out Atlético de Madrid in an electrifying match that ended in a 4-2 victory for the hosts. Dortmund’s triumph marked their first entry into the UEFA Champions League semi-finals since 2013.

The Pivotal Moments

Dortmund’s victory was punctuated by several significant moments. Julian Brandt opened the scoring with a left-footed shot, while Mats Hummels’ superb pass led to Dortmund’s second goal. Atlético de Madrid responded well with an own goal by Hummels and a goal by Ángel Correa. Despite the setback, Dortmund fought back, with Niclas Füllkrug leveling the tie and Marcel Sabitzer scoring the winning goal.

Standout Performances

Julian Brandt was the star of the match, contributing significantly to Dortmund’s victory. His tireless running, excellent work rate, and pivotal role in the build-up play earned him the title of PlayStation® Player of the Match. Dortmund’s fast and attacking style of play was a key factor in their success.

Match Report of Borussia Dortmund 4–2 Atlético Madrid from uefa.com

Bayern München vs. Arsenal

Bayern München’s clash with Arsenal was a close encounter that ended in a 1-0 victory for the German team. Joshua Kimmich’s second-half header was enough to send Bayern through to the semi-finals.

Key Moments

The match was marked by several key moments, including a near-miss from Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli and a shot by Bayern’s Leon Goretzka that hit the bar. However, the turning point came when Joshua Kimmich scored the only goal of the match, heading in a cross from Raphaël Guerreiro.

Standout Performances

Harry Kane was instrumental in Bayern’s victory, providing world-class finishing and linking up play effectively. His performance demonstrated why Bayern’s acquisition of the former Tottenham striker is viewed as one of the bargains of the summer.

Match Report of FC Bayern München 1-0 Arsenal from uefa.com

Paris Saint-Germain vs. Barcelona

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) pulled off a stunning comeback against Barcelona to secure a place in the semi-finals. Despite going two goals down on aggregate, PSG managed to win the tie 4-6, thanks to two goals from Kylian Mbappé.

Key Moments

PSG’s comeback was marked by several key moments, including a penalty scored by Kylian Mbappé and a late clincher from the same player. Barcelona’s Ronald Araújo was also sent off, which significantly impacted the match’s dynamics.

Standout Performances

Kylian Mbappé was the standout player of the match, scoring two goals and demonstrating why he is considered one of the best players in the world. His performance was crucial in helping PSG reach the semi-finals.

Match Report of Barcelona 1-4 Paris Saint-Germain from uefa.com

Real Madrid vs. Manchester City

Real Madrid managed to eliminate holders Manchester City after a dramatic penalty shootout that ended in a 4-3 victory for the Spanish side. Goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was the hero of the match, saving two penalties during the shootout.

Key Moments

The match was marked by several key moments, including a goal by Rodrygo and an equalizer by Kevin De Bruyne. However, the turning point came during the penalty shootout when Lunin saved two penalties, securing Real Madrid’s place in the semi-finals.

Standout Performances

Jude Bellingham was a key player for Real Madrid, providing excellent link-up play and scoring crucial goals. His performance in the match demonstrated his status as one of European football’s most talented midfielders.

Match Report of Manchester City 1–1 (a.e.t.) Real Madrid from uefa.com

Final Thoughts

The UEFA Champions League 2023/2024 quarter-finals second leg was filled with thrilling matches, standout performances, and unexpected results. The semi-finals promise to be just as exciting, with Borussia Dortmund, Bayern München, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid all vying for a place in the final.