OFFICIAL: Confirming the next 4 teams advancing to the Champions League Round of 16

Early this morning, the UEFA Champions League officially confirmed four more teams securing their spots in the Round of 16: Atlético Madrid, Bodø/Glimt, Leverkusen, and Newcastle after intense playoff matches.

Following the direct qualification of the top 8 teams in the group stage—Arsenal, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Liverpool, Man City, Sporting CP, and Tottenham—the playoff round delivered thrilling contests to determine the next representatives.

Atlético Madrid shines thanks to Sørloth

At home, Atlético Madrid defeated Club Brugge 4-1, winning the tie 7-4 on aggregate after two legs.

The star of the match was Alexander Sørloth with an impressive hat-trick. The Norwegian striker opened the scoring in the 23rd minute and completed his outstanding performance with two more goals in the second half. Johnny Cardoso’s goal in between helped coach Diego Simeone’s team fully control the game.

With this victory, Atlético will face either Tottenham or Liverpool in the Round of 16.

Leverkusen steadily advances

At BayArena, Leverkusen drew 0-0 against Olympiacos, securing progression with a 2-0 aggregate score. The German side demonstrated impressive solidity by keeping clean sheets in 5 of their last 7 Champions League matches. Despite Olympiacos’ strong efforts, Leverkusen maintained control and safely concluded the playoff round.

This is the first time in several seasons that Leverkusen has passed the knockout stage, and they will meet Arsenal or Bayern München in the last 16.

Bodø/Glimt causes an upset against Inter

The biggest surprise came from Bodø/Glimt, who defeated Inter 2-1 away, winning the tie 5-2 on aggregate.

Jens Petter Hauge and Håkon Evjen scored, giving the Norwegian side a comfortable lead before Inter mounted a late comeback. Despite intense pressure from the Italian club at the end, Bodø/Glimt preserved their advantage to reach the Champions League Round of 16 for the first time in history.

This is regarded as one of the most remarkable achievements for Norwegian football in European competition.

Newcastle asserts its strength

Meanwhile, Newcastle United continued their dominant form by beating Qarabağ 3-2, closing the tie with a 9-3 aggregate score.

Sandro Tonali and Joelinton quickly extended Newcastle’s lead before both teams engaged in an exciting goal chase. With this win, Newcastle will face Chelsea or Barcelona in the Round of 16.

The draw for the Round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final will take place next Friday, promising thrilling matchups in European football.