The Champions League quarter-final first legs did not disappoint. From controversial penalties, upsets and record-setting performances, it had it all. Here are the Winners and Losers from the Champions League. You can bet here.
Winners
Hugo Lloris and Spurs
In their new bedazzling stadium, Tottenham Hotspur defeated favourites Manchester City 1-0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. However, were it not for a brilliant penalty save from skipper Hugo Lloris, it would be another story. Spurs were excellent throughout the match with City creating very little, meaning the Citizens have it all to do in the second-leg at the Etihad.
Liverpool
Last year’s finalists Liverpool easily dispatched 2004 champions Porto 2-0 at Anfield and have one foot in the semis. The Reds could have scored more were it not for some lethargic finishing from Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino. However, the Reds are in a comfortable position heading into the second leg.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo scored a record-extending 125th goal in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals against Ajax. The Portuguese scored with a diving header from an inch-perfect cross from fullback Joao Cancelo. The goal was also Ronaldo’s 24th goal in the Champions League quarter-finals, 14 more than any other player.
Losers
Manchester City and Sergio Aguero
City suffered their first defeat following a run of 14 consecutive. They had a chance to score first from the penalty spot after Danny Rose was judged to have handled the ball inside the area. However, Sergio Aguero’s poor penalty was saved by Hugo Lloris. The English champions never hit top form in the game and Spurs deservedly merited the narrow victory.
Manchester United
Manchester United suffered yet another painful defeat, this time 1-0 at home to Barcelona on Wednesday in the Champions League quarter-final first leg. The Red Devils looked timid in the first few minutes, allowing Barca to dictate possession. The Spanish champions scored in the 12th minute but faded away. United were able to gain control of the game but failed to create any meaningful chances to score. This was United’s fourth home loss in the Champions League in six matches. They must now reproduce another comeback in the second leg at Camp Nou to keep their hopes alive.
Moussa Marega
The Porto striker spurned numerous chances to score against Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday. The Malian striker has been in terrific goalscoring form in Europe’s premier competition. He has scored six goals in eight appearances this season. Only Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski have scored more. The 27-year old missed big opportunities that could’ve gotten his team an away goal. Nevertheless, he still has one more chance to get past Alisson.