Manchester United s Anthony Elanga celebrates after scoring his side s first goal during the Champions League, round of 16, first leg soccer match between Atletico Madrid and Manchester United at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium in Madrid, Spain, Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022 (AP)
Joao Felix _ once touted as the next Ronaldo _ put the hosts ahead with a diving header seven minutes into the match, but substitute Anthony Elanga equalized in the 80th, five minutes after coming off the bench at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.
Atletico was in control during most of the match and twice hit the crossbar, including with an 86th-minute shot by Antoine Griezmann.
The return leg will be on March 15 in England.
Ronaldo, who several times ended Atletico's title hopes in the Champions League when he was with crosstown rival Real Madrid, struggled throughout the match and was visibly frustrated.
Isolated up front, he was booed by the Atletico fans nearly every time he touched the ball at the Metropolitano.
Felix was much more dangerous for Atletico, constantly threatening with his quick turns and strong runs.
(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
Short link: