WATCH: USMNT's Johnny Cardoso scores first Atletico Madrid goal in Champions League tie against Club Brugge
CBS Sports
by
Pardeep Cattry
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Johnny Cardoso became a hero for Atletico Madrid as he scored his first-ever goal in the UEFA Champions League, securing a crucial victory against Club Brugge. The U.S. men's national team hopeful delivered a powerful strike that gave Atleti a 2-1 lead on the day and a commanding 5-4 advantage on aggregate in their knockout playoff clash. Cardoso's goal was a highlight of an impressive performance, showcasing his ability to make an impact despite playing as a defensive midfielder. His strike, which came after controlling a header and executing a powerful first-time shot past Brugge goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, demonstrated both his tenacity and finishing prowess.
The game was a rollercoaster, with Atleti ultimately triumphing 4-1 on the night and 7-4 overall. Cardoso's goal proved pivotal as it set the tone for Atleti's dominance in the second half. The midfielder had been working hard to regain fitness after a series of injuries since joining Atletico Madrid last summer, which limited his appearances early in the season. His recent form has been a boost not only for Atleti but also for the USMNT, as coach Mauricio Pochettino closely monitors player performances ahead of the World Cup.
Cardoso's ability to contribute defensively and offensively makes him a valuable asset, even if he is not known for his passing. His strengths lie in his tackling (ranking in the 93rd percentile among defensive midfielders in Europe's top five leagues) and his work rate. Despite being mistake-prone at times, his recent performances have shown consistent improvement. His contributions against Brugge, including two crucial recoveries late in the game, highlighted his growing importance to Atleti.
For Cardoso, this goal is a significant milestone in his career, coming at an ideal time as he vies for a spot on the U.S. World Cup squad. His ability to secure key moments for Atletico Madrid will be closely watched by Poch
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/24/2026