🥐 High-voltage last 16, Vini, Griezmann… 5️⃣ stories for Thursday

The group stage of the Champions League has come to a close, leaving behind a trail of epic moments, notable disappointments, and a high-voltage roadmap for the Spanish teams.

While Real Madrid secured their place in the round of 16 under the stellar leadership of Vinícius Jr., other continental giants like Juventus or Borussia Dortmund bid farewell to Europe’s top competition after a nail-biting matchday. The focus of continental football now shifts to Friday’s draw, where the matchups promise high-stakes clashes for Madrid, Barça, and Atlético.

However, the action doesn’t stop on the European pitch. The offices and the transfer market are stirring up the national scene with the possible departure of Antoine Griezmann to the MLS, a move that would mark the end of an era at the Metropolitano.

At the same time, FC Barcelona faces an institutional setback from the City Council, complicating their dream of a cup comeback against Atlético de Madrid.

Vini Jr. seals the passage to the round of 16

Real Madrid is already in the knockout stage of the Champions League after overcoming a shaky start. Vinícius Jr. led the white comeback, confirming his status as a global star. The downside was Asencio’s worrying injury, which overshadows a qualification where Sporting or City already await.

Drama and surprises in Europe

The last group stage matchday was a real earthquake. PSG achieved a miracle against Monaco in a nail-biting match. Worse luck befell Borussia Dortmund, who collapsed against Atalanta after losing a 2-0 lead, and Juventus, eliminated by Osimhen’s Galatasaray despite an epic resistance with ten men.

Explosive draw on the horizon

Next Friday at 12:00, the fate of the survivors will be determined. The matchups promise twists and turns: Madrid looks towards Manchester or Lisbon, while Barça could face Newcastle or PSG. Atlético, meanwhile, is preparing for a British duel against Liverpool or Tottenham.

Griezmann: heading to the United States?

Bombshell in the market. According to El Larguero, Antoine Griezmann is closer than ever to leaving Atlético to join the MLS. His final farewell to the Atlético fans could take place at the Metropolitano against Real Sociedad, closing a historic chapter at the club.

Setback for Camp Nou’s capacity

📸 David Ramos – 2025 Getty Images

A tough institutional blow for Barça. The City Council has denied the activation of phase 1C of the Spotify Camp Nou, preventing 62,000 spectators from supporting the team in the Copa return leg against Atlético. Without that extra support, the 4-0 comeback seems even more heroic.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

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