Astana: Nenad Eric; Ilic, Postnikov, Anicic, Shomko; Dzholchiyev (Beysebekov 90‘), Roger Cañas, Maksimovic, Foxi Kéthevoama; Junior Kabananga (Schetkin 80’), Muzhikov (Zhukov 78’). 4-4-2.
Atlético: Oblak; Juanfran, Giménez, Godín, Siquiera; Saúl Ñíguez (Carrasco 73‘), Gabi, Tiago, Koke (Oliver Torres 82‘); Griezmann, Fernando Torres (Jackson Martínez 64’). 4-4-2.
Goals: None.
A bit of a surprise in Kazakhstan, Atlético Madrid only able to draw 0-0 at bottom club Astana. Only two weeks ago Simeone’s side had beaten their rivals 4-0, but for the return leg they had to face a 6,000 kilometer journey, an artificial pitch and temperatures ten below zero. The Spaniards did have the better chances in the first half, Tiago and Siquiera having early shots blocked, Fernando Torres shooting wide when free on goal, and Koke hitting the top of the crossbar with a free kick, but the locals also had their moments, Oblak having to save from Anicic and Kethevoama. The coach brought on Jackson Martínez, Carrasco and Oliver Torres in the second half, and Griezmann and Carrasco in particular went close, but in the end there was no way through. Atleti still top their group pending the other group game later tonight, although this result was an unexpected set-back.