Champions League Roundup: American Players’ Performances and Outcomes

omidbasir- Johnny Cardoso was introduced into the match too late to impact the outcome significantly. Thankfully, Atletico Madrid’s advancement to the next round was never in jeopardy.

Despite an early goal from Atletico Madrid in the 15th minute, they suffered a 2-1 defeat at home to underdogs Bodo/Glimt. This loss dashed their hopes of finishing in the top eight, leading them to the playoff round instead. Cardoso entered the match in the 64th minute, just after both Bodo/Glimt goals, and performed admirably after replacing veteran Koke in midfield.

**Finish: 14th**
**Next up: Club Brugge or Galatasaray**

In a disappointing encounter, Weston McKennie and Juventus were unable to secure the crucial goal needed to defeat Monaco, resulting in a 0-0 draw. This match came on the heels of McKennie’s impressive scoring streak, having netted in each of his prior three Champions League matches. Although he could not add to his tally, Juventus remains well-positioned for the next phase of the competition.

**Finish: 13th**
**Next up: Club Brugge or Galatasaray**

Similarly, Folarin Balogun, who previously had a three-match scoring streak, struggled to make an impact in the game against Juventus. Starting in the forward position for Monaco, Balogun recorded two shots but did not receive enough opportunities to influence the match. However, like Juventus, Monaco also advanced, gearing up to face a formidable opponent in the next round.

**Finish: 21st**
**Next up: Newcastle United or Paris Saint-Germain**

Tim Weah and Marseille appeared to be on solid ground until a shocking 98th-minute goal from Benfica’s goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin put their Champions League hopes in jeopardy. Ultimately, Benfica advanced on goal difference, leaving Marseille to grapple with a self-inflicted collapse.

Marseille’s path seemed straightforward against Club Brugge, but they were soundly defeated 3-0, squandering their goal differential and resulting in their elimination. This loss marks them as the first team ousted from the competition in a heartbreaking fashion.

**Finish: 25th**
**Next up: Eliminated**

Yunus Musah and Atalanta experienced a frustrating match against Union St. Gilloise, failing to find their rhythm. Musah made a rare start, performing well for 52 minutes before being substituted 18 minutes prior to Atalanta conceding the decisive goal. Nevertheless, Atalanta had already secured their place in the playoffs, making the result less painful.

**Finish: 15th**
**Next up: Olympiacos or Borussia Dortmund**

Bayer Leverkusen entered their match with Villarreal needing a strong performance to advance, and they achieved just that, largely thanks to USMNT star Malik Tillman. He scored twice in the match, contributing significantly to a 2-1 victory that solidified Leverkusen’s progression. Tillman’s first goal came from a critical mistake by Villarreal in the 12th minute, followed by a well-executed finish in the 35th minute—marking his first Champions League goals of the season.

**Finish: 16th**
**Next up: Olympiacos or Borussia Dortmund**

PSV faced a daunting challenge, requiring a win against Bayern Munich to remain in contention. Unfortunately, they were unable to secure the victory, ultimately losing 2-1 despite a valiant effort. A goal from Jamal Musiala early in the second half set the tone, and although PSV managed to equalize briefly, they succumbed to a late goal from Harry Kane, sealing their fate.

With Pepi sidelined due to injury, Dest started for PSV in the match.

**Finish: 28th**
**Next up: Eliminated**