At Madrid 1-0 Bayern Munich, Saul scores

A SCORCHER from Saul Niguez sealed a vital 1-0 win for Atletico Madrid in their Champions League semi-final first-leg against Bayern Munich.

The Spanish midfielder dribbled through three opposition players before tucking the ball into the far corner past Manuel Neuer after 11 minutes, earning Diego Simeone’s men a slender advantage ahead of next week’s return leg.

David Alaba was denied an equaliser in the second-half when his fierce shot hit the woodwork, while Fernando Torres also struck the woodwork despite being clear on goal late on in the game.

Here are five things we learnt at the Vicente Calderon:

1

Atletico's bid for unlikely Champions League glory remains on.

And their fearless style of play has made them become many neutrals' choice. The new Leicester?

2

Saul Niguez is one to watch for the future.

The 21-year-old Spaniard's sensational strike brought this game to life and suggested that big things could follow from him.

3

Mark Clattenburg could be England's best chance of a representative in the Euro 2016 final.

The North East whistleblower superbly officiated this semi and is now one of Europe's premier refs.

Lewandowski
Robert Lewandowski struggled for opportunities against Atletico Getty

4

Robert Lewandowski could not stop scoring at the start of the season but now looks a shadow of his former self.

He has scored just twice in eight games as Atletico well marked him.

5

Pep Guardiola seemed reluctant to make changes with his side losing and was slow to bring on Franck Ribery.

And that may cause Manchester City fans concern for the future.