Bruges and Atlético Madrid battled to a 3-3 draw in the first leg of their Champions League play-off round on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, setting the stage for a decisive return match in Madrid. While the result leaves Atlético with work to do, defender Marc Pubill expressed confidence in his team’s ability to advance, fueled by the anticipated fervent support of their home fans.
The match, played at the Jan Breydelstadion in Bruges under rainy conditions, saw Atlético initially take a 2-0 lead before being pegged back by a resilient Brugge side. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 5th minute, and Ademola Lookman extended the lead just before halftime. However, Brugge responded with goals from Raphael Onyedika and Nicolo Tresoldi, ultimately securing the draw. The tie is finely poised as both teams head into the second leg.
Pubill, who played a key role in the match, acknowledged the team’s mixed feelings after the draw. “We came to win and knew it wouldn’t be easy. We leave with a bittersweet feeling,” he said, speaking to Movistar after the game. “But the return leg is at home, and I’m sure we’ll receive it done.”
The Atlético defender also emphasized the importance of analyzing their mistakes from the first leg to improve their performance in the return fixture. “We’re going to analyze what we did wrong to improve and win that match in the return leg,” Pubill stated.
However, it was Pubill’s passionate declaration about the home support that resonated most strongly. “The return leg at home will be key. Our people will die for us,” he proclaimed, highlighting the crucial role the Atlético Madrid faithful will play in the second leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
The second leg is scheduled to be played in Madrid, with Atlético hoping to capitalize on home advantage and secure their place in the next stage of the Champions League. The team will need to address the defensive vulnerabilities exposed in Bruges, where they conceded three goals, if they are to progress.
The draw in Belgium keeps the tie wide open, and Atlético will be looking to leverage the energy of their supporters to overcome Brugge and advance in the competition. The atmosphere at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano is expected to be electric as Atlético Madrid fight for a spot in the Champions League round of 16.
What comes next for Atlético Madrid is a focused preparation period ahead of the second leg. The team will analyze their performance in Bruges and work to refine their tactics and address defensive weaknesses. The return match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for a coveted place in the Champions League knockout stages.
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