Only two of the Premier League’s last-16 teams made it to the quarter-finals while European giants are coming into form when it matters
Another traumatic week for the self-worth of the Premier League, one in which Europe’s big beasts got into their stride. The defending champions, Paris Saint-Germain, put on a devastating display at Chelsea. Bradley Barcola’s goal, their second, was the highlight of a 3-0 win. Barcelona ran out 7-2 winners over Newcastle, having been level at half-time at 2-2, 3-3 on aggregate. Real Madrid continue to be Pep Guardiola’s great tormentors, with Vinícius Júnior getting both goals at Manchester City. His crybaby celebration was aimed at those City supporters who mocked him after Rodri pipped the Brazilian to the Ballon d’Or in 2024. Bayern Munich continue to look irresistible. Harry Kane scored twice, and Lennart Karl’s strike continued his trajectory as German football’s next big thing in a 4-1 win over Atalanta, a mighty 10-2 on aggregate.
Two quarter-finalists from six last-16 qualifiers is a poor return for the Premier League. Recriminations will continue if one of Liverpool or Arsenal do not lift the trophy in Budapest. Arsenal enjoyed the easiest progress, with Eberechi Eze’s pirouette and lash to take control against Bayer Leverkusen showing how dangerous he can be. Beyond the fatigue that many cite, the differences in refereeing standards and the continental teams’ greater ability to maintain possession are also contributing factors. The most encouraging display of the English exits came from Tottenham, for whom Igor Tudor may, at last, be having a positive effect. It briefly looked as if Spurs could stage a comeback against Atlético Madrid before Julián Alvarez’s brilliant finish kept the tie in Atléti’s grasp. Xavi Simons’s late penalty, to follow an earlier, exemplary strike, secured a first win for Tudor, the first for Spurs since January. They still lost 7-5 on aggregate though.
