Europa League: Radamel Falcao restores some Madrid pride by helping Atletico to win over Valencia
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Real Madrid might have been beaten in the Champions League this week but neighbours Atletico took a step towards the final of the Europa League last night with a 4-2 win at home over Valencia in their semi-final first leg, Colombian striker Radamel Falcao scoring twice.
Falcao gave Atletico the lead at the Vicente Calderon in the 18th minute, reacting quickly to head in from close range. However, Brazilian striker Jonas equalised on the stroke of half-time, steering the ball home from a corner.
Diego Simeone's side regained the lead almost immediately after the break, Diego flighting in a free-kick for unmarked defender Miranda to score with a header. Adrian then cut through the Valencia defence to make it three and Falcao's spectacular drive into the top corner made it 4-1 before Ricardo Costa's late header gave Valencia some hope for the return.
In the other semi-final, Athletic Bilbao, who knocked out Manchester United, took the lead in Lisbon through Jon Aurtenetxe only for Sporting to fight back to win 2-1 with goals from Emiliano Insua and Diego Capel in the last 15 minutes.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments