Atletico Madrid 1-1 Leicester
Niguez 26 Vardy 61
Leicester City’s incredible run in the Champions League came to an end with a 1-1 draw which meant Atletico were 2-1 up on aggregate and sent them through.
Leicester were in full control when Saul Niguez scored a 26th minute bullet header. The cross came about when Luis picked the ball up after an interception from Leicester and crossed it into Niguez, who smashed the ball across goal to sink Leicester’s hearts.
Leicester needed three goals and Shakespeare realised that changes were going to be required. At half time Ulloa and Chilwell came on for Okazaki and Benalouane and both players were important in the remaining part of the match. Chilwell fired a volley over the bar after being set up by his fellow substitute, and Ulloa’s goal-bound shot was blocked.
Leicester had to score a goal to have any hope in the tie and they got one at the perfect time. A blocked shot fell to Vardy who hit the ball at the perfect height and with no uncertainty that Oblak would get a touch on it. Leicester’s dream was suddenly alive again.
Chance after chance followed and Leicester were getting frustrated, the clock was ticking and it probably felt like the game was going on and on for Atletico who desperately threw men in front of the ball and flew into tackles trying to maintain their lead. Atletico defended well and the final whistle blew without Leicester getting a goal.
It has been an incredible journey for Leicester in the Champions League, but it was always going to be difficult to beat one of Europe’s best teams.