Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid take control as Liverpool stumble and Barcelona stall

Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid seized the initiative in their UEFA Champions League last-16 ties, recording emphatic first-leg victories that leave them on the brink of the quarter-finals. Liverpool and Barcelona, meanwhile, were left with uphill battles after contrasting setbacks.

Bayern produced the standout performance of the night, dismantling Atalanta 6-1 in a statement win achieved without leading marksman Harry Kane in the starting lineup. The Bundesliga giants poured forward from the outset, and the commanding margin puts them within touching distance of the last eight.

Spanish side Atletico Madrid also banked a sizeable advantage, their win adding to the pressure on their next opponent ahead of the return leg. The result strengthens their bid for a deep European run and underlines their growing momentum on the continent.

In contrast, Liverpool were dealt a defeat that leaves their progression hopes hanging in the balance. The loss forces the Premier League club to chase the tie in the second leg, heightening the stakes for the return fixture at Anfield.

Barcelona fared only marginally better, held to a draw that denies them a crucial lead. The stalemate means everything remains to play for at Camp Nou, though the Catalans will rue missed chances to seize control of the tie.

With the quarter-finals looming, Bayern and Atletico have set the benchmark, while Liverpool and Barcelona must regroup quickly to keep their European dreams alive.