Alexander Sorloth scores a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid advance to the Champions League round of 16.

Alexander Sorloth had an unforgettable night at the Metropolitano, scoring three goals to help Atletico Madrid thrash Club Brugge 4-1. This convincing victory officially propelled Diego Simeone's team into the Champions League round of 16 with an aggregate score of 7-4 over two legs.

The home team's dominance and the counter-attack from Club Brugge.

Returning to their home ground after a dramatic 3-3 draw in the first leg, Atletico Madrid entered the match determined to settle the score early. In the 23rd minute, from a long pass over the top by goalkeeper Jan Oblak, Alexander Sorloth displayed his physical strength by outmuscling center-back Brandon Mechele. The Norwegian striker coolly finished with his left foot to beat Simon Mignolet, opening the scoring.

Having unexpectedly conceded a goal, Club Brugge immediately pressed forward in search of opportunities. Their efforts were rewarded in the 36th minute. From a corner kick by Christos Tzolis, Mechele cleverly headed the ball back to Joel Ordonez, who tapped it in from close range to equalize the score at 1-1. Shortly afterwards, goalkeeper Oblak had to make a spectacular save against a header from Hugo Vetlesen to prevent Atletico from falling behind before the first half ended.

Johnny Cardoso's volley and Sorloth's night.

In the second half, Atletico Madrid increased the pressure right from the opening minutes. In the 48th minute, American midfielder Johnny Cardoso made his mark with a chest control followed by a beautiful right-footed volley from the edge of the penalty area. This was Cardoso's first goal for his new team, restoring Atletico's lead and crushing the opponent's will to resist.

The game then completely belonged to the home team at the Metropolitano Stadium. In the 76th minute, after a smooth combination between Ademola Lookman and Antoine Griezmann, Sorloth was once again in the right place at the right time to increase the score to 3-1. The striker born in 1995 completed his hat-trick in the 87th minute after a precise cross from Matteo Ruggeri, sealing a 4-1 victory for the La Liga representatives.

Impressive statistics and potential competitors.

This brilliant performance helped Sorloth equal his total goals in a single match compared to his previous 20 appearances in the Champions League. Below is a detailed breakdown of the goalscorers in the match:

Having overcome the play-off round, Atletico Madrid proved their tenacious spirit in continental competition. Their next opponent in the round of 16 will be one of two Premier League clubs: Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur.