Atletico Madrid's Champions League future hangs in the balance after the Spanish side could only draw2-2 at home to Portuguese league leaders FC Porto.
The result means Atletico needs to score in the return leg in order to qualify for the quarterfinals of the competition.
Atletico got off to a flying start after just two minutes when Maxi Rodriguez fired home from inside the area after good work from Kun Aguero, who whipped a swift cross into the Porto area.
Atletico coach Abel Resino had put an attacking side on the pitch with Maxi, Simao Sabrosa, Aguero and Diego Forlan, all posing a threat to the Porto goal.
However, Atletico have been vulnerable in defense for much of this season and Porto's Lisandro Lopez leveled the score midway through the half with a left foot shot from the edge of the Atletico penalty area.
The goal clearly affected Atletico and both Lopez and Porto striker Hulk had chances to put the visitors ahead, but Leo Franco was able to make comfortable saves.
Those saves were vital because Forlan re-established Atletico's lead on the stroke of half time thanks to a serious error from Porto keeper Helton, who failed to gather a very stoppable shot.
Porto started the second half pressing hard as they looked to get back into the game and after 55 minutes Abel reacted by changing Aguero for Sinama-Pongolle in an attempt to introduce some fresh legs into the game.
Nevertheless, Porto remained on top and it was no surprise when Lopez scored his second of the night to make it 2-2 with 18 minutes remaining.
Both sides worked hard for a third goal in a thrilling end to the match, but there was no further score and everything will be decided in two weeks time.
(Xinhua News Agency Feburary 25, 2009)
