Beiruting News

Atletico Madrid progressed to the semi-finals for the first time since 1974 courtesy of a tense 1-0 victory on the night resulting in a 2-1 aggregate win over Spanish rivals Barcelona in the Champions League.In a breathtaking start, Diego Simeone's side took the lead on six minutes through playmaker Koke but would be denied by the woodwork three times in the opening 20 minutes, while Lionel Messi headed wide from eight yards after meeting Dani Alves' cross.Two penalty appeals ended the first-half on a controversial note, with Lopez going down under a challenge from Javier Mascherano, and Cesc Fabregas felled by Diego Godin down the other end.Barca went close early in the second half when Xavi played through Neymar, but the Brazilian was brilliantly denied by Thibaut Courtois. Barcelona continued to apply the pressure but Atletico - who had won 16 of their previous 17 matches in European competition - held firm.And they looked dangerous on the counter as highlighted when substitute Diego forced stand-in goalkeeper Jose Pinto into a reflex stop. Atletico could have sealed the match with just over 20 minutes to go when Villa snuck behind the defence but, with just Pinto to beat, he produced a weak attempt at goal.The hosts were then denied a penalty when Mascherano bundled over Villa in the box but once again Howard Webb waved played on.Neymar would have possibly the best and final chance for Barcelona when he got in front of Miranda to win a diving header but saw his effort go just inches wide.Just like their neighbours Real Madrid the previous night, Atletico held on to claim a place in the last four of the Champions League.