Borussia Dortmund, who made it to the Champions League final in 2013, has advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time in three years. Jadon Sancho struck early, and Marco Reus secured a late goal, propelling Borussia Dortmund to a 2-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the second leg of their last 16 encounter on Wednesday.
Sancho found the net in the third minute, while Reus sealed the win with a goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time, completing Dortmund's 3-1 aggregate triumph after a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Eindhoven.
Reflecting on the achievement, Niclas Füllkrug remarked, "We're anticipating the next round because we know a formidable opponent awaits us." Dortmund coach Edin Terzić expressed disappointment over his team's performance in the second half, despite a strong start which he described as "the best 30 minutes of the season." Ian Maatsen tested PSV goalkeeper Walter Benítez in the early stages before Sancho's decisive goal.
Julian Brandt played a crucial role, setting up Sancho for his second goal in as many games with a precise shot. Sancho's first goal since his return from Manchester United came in Dortmund's victory over Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga.
Although Dortmund displayed dominance, particularly in the first half, they missed several opportunities to extend their lead. Füllkrug failed to capitalize on a clear chance, while Donyell Malen missed another opportunity against his former team.
PSV started to pose a threat only after the initial 25 minutes, with Gregor Kobel making key saves. PSV coach Peter Bosz's tactical changes, including introducing Hirving Lozano, injected more energy into the team.
Despite PSV's resurgence, Dortmund continued to press forward. Reus replaced the injured Sancho and nearly scored from a free kick, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review for offside.
PSV captain Luuk de Jong rued missed opportunities, stating, "We dominated the second half without creating any huge chances, until right at the end, when I should have scored."
In the other Champions League fixture on Wednesday, Atletico Madrid overcame Inter Milan in a penalty shootout. The eight teams progressing to the quarterfinals are Atletico Madrid, Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Barcelona.
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