Johnny Cardoso Set to Keep Starting Spot for Atlético Madrid in Champions League Semifinal Second Leg

Key facts

• Johnny Cardoso, a New Jersey native, started for Atlético Madrid in the Champions League semifinal first leg against Arsenal.
• Cardoso is the third American to start in a Champions League semifinal.
• Atlético Madrid lost the first leg to Arsenal and must overcome the deficit in the second leg.
• Cardoso is expected to keep his starting spot for the second leg.
• The second leg of the semifinal will determine who advances to the Champions League final.
• Cardoso's performance comes amid uncertainty about his role with the USMNT for the 2026 World Cup.

A New Jersey Native in the Semifinal Spotlight

Johnny Cardoso, a 23-year-old midfielder from New Jersey, has become the third American to start in a UEFA Champions League semifinal, a milestone that underscores the growing footprint of U.S. players in Europe's elite club competition. Cardoso earned the start for Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their semifinal tie against Arsenal, a match that ended in a 2-0 defeat for the Spanish side. Despite the loss, Cardoso's performance was solid enough that manager Diego Simeone is expected to keep him in the starting lineup for the decisive second leg.

Helping Atlético Madrid Reach the Semifinals

Cardoso played a key role in Atlético Madrid's run to the semifinals, contributing in both legs of the quarterfinal against Borussia Dortmund. His steady presence in midfield has been a revelation since joining the club, and his ability to break up play and distribute under pressure has made him a trusted option for Simeone. The American's emergence has been particularly timely given the club's injury concerns and the demanding schedule of a Champions League campaign.

A Historic Achievement for American Players

By starting in a Champions League semifinal, Cardoso joins an exclusive club that includes only two other Americans: Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams. Pulisic started for Chelsea in the 2021 semifinal against Real Madrid, while Adams started for RB Leipzig in the 2020 semifinal against Paris Saint-Germain. Cardoso's achievement is a testament to the rapid development of U.S. soccer talent, which is increasingly making an impact at the highest levels of European football.

World Cup Uncertainty and National Team Prospects

Cardoso's strong performances for Atlético Madrid come at a crucial time for the United States men's national team, which is preparing to co-host the 2026 World Cup. However, his role with the USMNT remains uncertain, as he faces stiff competition for midfield spots from established players like Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, and Tyler Adams. His club form could tip the balance in his favor, but the depth of American talent means no starting spot is guaranteed.

The Second Leg: A Do-or-Die Encounter

Atlético Madrid will host Arsenal in the second leg of the semifinal, needing to overturn a two-goal deficit to reach the final. The match is scheduled for next week at the Metropolitano Stadium, where Atlético has been formidable this season. Cardoso's ability to control the tempo and provide defensive cover will be critical if Simeone's side is to mount a comeback. A victory would send Atlético to the final and give Cardoso a chance to become the first American to play in a Champions League final.

What Comes Next for Cardoso and Atlético

Regardless of the outcome against Arsenal, Cardoso's emergence has solidified his place as a rising star in European football. For Atlético, the semifinal represents an opportunity to add to their Champions League legacy, having reached the final three times without winning. For Cardoso, the experience is invaluable, offering him a platform to showcase his talents on the biggest stage. The coming weeks will determine whether his storybook season ends in glory or heartbreak, but his place in the semifinal starting lineup is already a landmark moment for American soccer.

The bottom line

• Johnny Cardoso is the third American to start in a Champions League semifinal, after Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams.
• He is expected to retain his starting spot for Atlético Madrid in the second leg against Arsenal.
• Atlético Madrid trails 2-0 after the first leg and must win by at least two goals to advance.
• Cardoso's club form could boost his chances of securing a regular role with the USMNT for the 2026 World Cup.
• The second leg will be played at Atlético's home stadium, the Metropolitano, where they have a strong record.