Results of the First Legs of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16: Bayern’s Confident Win and a Spectacular Show in Madrid

On March 10, the first matches of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 took place. The matchday delivered several exciting clashes for fans: Galatasaray’s narrow victory over Liverpool, Bayern’s crushing win in Bergamo, Atletico’s high-scoring triumph over Tottenham, and a hard-fought draw between Newcastle and Barcelona.

Galatasaray — Liverpool 1:0

The Turkish club managed to secure an important home victory over Liverpool despite constant pressure from the visitors. The English side attacked actively throughout the match but failed to convert their chances.

The only goal of the game came from a set-piece situation in the first half. The hosts defended intelligently until the final whistle, repeatedly stopping the opponent’s attacks at the last moment.

Mario Lemina was named the Man of the Match, with his goal proving decisive. UEFA experts highlighted his huge defensive contribution and high intensity in duels.

Galatasaray will travel to Anfield for the second leg with a minimal advantage.

Atalanta — Bayern 1:6

The most high-scoring match of the day took place in Bergamo, where Bayern delivered a real goal spectacle. The German club scored three goals in each half and virtually settled the outcome of the two-legged tie.

The hosts managed to score only in the final seconds — Mario Pašalić’s goal at least gave Atalanta fans something to cheer about.

The hero of the match was Michael Olise, who scored a brace and provided an assist. UEFA experts also noted his activity in creating dangerous chances through dribbling and accurate passing.

Before the return leg, Bayern look like clear favorites to reach the quarterfinals.

Atletico Madrid — Tottenham 5:2

One of the most spectacular matches of the evening took place in Madrid. Atletico produced a powerful spell in the middle of the game, scoring four goals in just 22 minutes and effectively deciding the outcome.

Julián Álvarez scored twice, while Antoine Griezmann also played an important role in the attacking play. The London side reduced the deficit thanks to goals from Pedro Porro and Dominic Solanke, but they could not change the course of the match.

Álvarez was named Man of the Match with two goals, an assist, and several key passes.

This was the first time Atletico scored five goals in a Champions League knockout match. Ahead of the second leg in London, Diego Simeone’s team holds a serious advantage.

Newcastle — Barcelona 1:1

At St James’ Park, the teams exchanged goals and kept the intrigue alive for the second leg. Newcastle played a very disciplined match, almost not allowing the La Liga leaders to create dangerous chances.

The hosts opened the scoring thanks to Harvey Barnes, who was active throughout the match and regularly threatened the Catalan defense. However, the English club could not hold on to the win — late in the match Barcelona’s young talent Lamine Yamal equalized.

Barnes was named the Man of the Match for his intelligent tactical play and attacking activity.

The second legs of the Champions League Round of 16 will take place in a week and will determine the quarterfinalists. Bayern and Atletico currently have the most comfortable positions ahead of the return matches, while the ties Galatasaray — Liverpool and Newcastle — Barcelona remain almost completely open.