UCL: Points shared as Barca advance to last 16, Atalanta settles for playoffs

Barcelona and Atalanta played a 2-2 draw as both teams progressed beyond the league-format stage of the UEFA Champions League.

However, Barca secured an automatic place in the Champions League last 16, while the Italian side missed out, settling for playoffs.

Last season’s Europa League winners, who were missing Ademola Lookman through injury, ultimately needed a victory away from home against Hansi Flick’s side. However, the Italians slipped out of the top eight despite twice coming from behind.

The Catalans took the lead two minutes after half-time, courtesy of Lamine Yamal, before Ederson equalised for Atalanta.

Ronald Araujo restored Barca’s advantage with a header from a corner.

However, Atalanta levelled again when Mario Pasalic nutmegged Wojciech Szczesny with a low strike.

The Italian side had to settle for 9th position, a point and position away from automatic qualification for the last 16.

Meanwhile, Barcelona finished comfortably in 2nd position, behind Liverpool.