🥐 Atleti flying, Inter crash... 5️⃣ stories to start your day | OneFootball

The European matchday leaves us with a variety of sensations. From Atlético de Madrid celebrating their advance to the round of 16 thanks to an in-form Alexander Sorloth, to an Inter Milan that signs one of the biggest embarrassments in its recent history at San Siro.

Continental football gives no respite and the focus now shifts to the Santiago Bernabéu, where Real Madrid plays for its future against Benfica with the alarming doubt of Kylian Mbappé, whose knee keeps all Madrid fans on edge just hours before the kickoff.

Beyond the pitch, the offices and benches take on unexpected prominence with moves that could change the international landscape. From River Plate's strong interest in Eduardo Coudet to the surprising possibility of seeing Xavi Hernández leading the ambitious project of the Morocco national team.

Sorloth reigns at the Metropolitano

Atlético de Madrid is already in the Champions League round of 16 after an exhibition by Alexander Sorloth. The Norwegian forward scored an imperial hat-trick to defeat Brugge (4-2). Although the Belgians managed to equalize the match after Sorloth's initial goal, the "9"'s striking power and a goal from Johnny Cardoso sealed the red-and-white's passage on a magical night in Madrid.

Uncertainty with Mbappé against Benfica

Real Madrid plays for its European future tonight against Benfica with a potentially decisive absence. Kylian Mbappé has knee discomfort and his starting position is an absolute mystery. Arbeloa might be forced to rely on the youth player Gonzalo to accompany Vinícius in a Santiago Bernabéu that hopes not to suffer to secure the qualification.

Historic setback for Inter at San Siro

The negative surprise of the day was led by Inter Milan. The team managed by Chivu suffered a dreadful embarrassment by losing 1-2 to the Norwegian Bodo Glimt. The "Nerazzurri" offered a disastrous image in their own stadium, being outperformed by a Nordic team that continues to make history in Europe at the expense of a giant in crisis.

River Plate tempts 'Chacho' Coudet

In the coaching market, River Plate has set its sights on Eduardo Coudet. However, Alavés has full confidence in retaining the Argentine coach. The operation seems complex, as the coach has no release clause and his current priority is to continue growing in European football, despite the interest from the "millionaire" club.

Is Xavi Hernández heading to Morocco?

The bombshell news comes from Africa. Walid Regragui might leave his position in the Morocco national team and Xavi Hernández is the favorite to replace him. The Moroccan federation is looking for a profile with guarantees and global prestige to lead their project for the next World Cup, and the style of the former Barça coach fits perfectly.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 PIERRE-PHILIPPE MARCOU - AFP or licensors