Good night for Spanish clubs in Europe as Ronaldo nets four

Atletico Madrid assured first place in their Champions League qualifying group on Tuesday night and thus assured a more favorable draw in the last 16 of the competition as they won 2-1 away to Portuguese side Benfica.

Atletico had lost their home game against Benfica 2-1 and needed to win in order to assure top spot, but after a shaky opening five minutes the Atletico imposed themselves on the game and took a 2-0 lead through Saul Niguez and Luciano Vietto.

Kostas Mitroglou pulled a goal back for Benfica in the 75th minute, but Atletico were able to hang on without too many problems.

The result means that Atletico, Barca and Real Madrid all end up as group leaders.

There was nothing to play for in Real Madrid's home game against Malmo, who were doomed to finish last in their qualifying group and the home fans were able to enjoy a goal-fest as Cristiano Ronaldo netted 4 goals to set a new record of 11 for the group stage.

In fairness, however, Malmo were very poor, lacked motivation and put up scant motivation against a strong Madrid side, despite the fact Rafael Benitez's men had already assured top spot in their group.

As well as Ronaldo's 4 goals, Karim Benzema also scored a hat-trick, while Mateo Kovacic also got on the scoresheet on what turned into a stroll for the home side.

Fernando Llorente's 65th minute goal for Sevilla at home to his previous club, Juventus coupled with Manchester City's 4-2 win at home to Borussia Munchengladbach assured his side a third place finish in their group and gives the Europa League winners the chance to defend their crown in that competition in the New Year. Endit