Saul Niguez netted an early goal as Atlético Madrid snatched a hard-fouth 1-0 victory over the Uefa Champions League holders Liverpool at Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.
The Spanish side went ahead so early after only four minutes when the hosts won a corner. Koke lifted a well-played cross, which was not dealt with by the Reds' defense, as the ball squirmed through to Saul Niguez, who fired in from a close range.
Mohamed Salah came close to level the scoring in the 36th minute when he fired a shot, which appeared to be arrowing towards the top corner, but it took a deflection off the head of Felipe and went over the bar for a corner.
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Niguez is celebrating his goal[/caption]
The iconic Egyptian star wasted another great opportunity in the 52nd minute when he skipped between two defenders and met Gomez' cross with a powerful header, which went so close to the left corner.
The second leg of the knock-out stage between both clubs will be held in March at Anfield stadium.
The Reds qualified for the knock-out stage as Group E winners, while Atletico Madrid advanced to the last 16 as Group D winners.
It is worth mentioning that Liverpool managed to claim the Uefa Champions League title at Wanda Metropolitano stadium in the last season.
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