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By the numbers: Atletico's defence is a brick wall

Reuters

Another match, another team that couldn't figure out a way to Atletico Madrid. Ho hum.

The best defensive side on the planet frustrated another of Europe's most frightening attacking outfits on Wednesday as Diego Simeone's men claimed a 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie.

Burgeoning star Saul Niguez scored a brilliant solo goal to deliver the result, but the Rojiblancos' backline, even without the services of Diego Godin, once again garnered the plaudits.

Related - Watch: Saul Niguez humiliates Bayern defence with stunning solo goal

Here are some numbers that highlight just how daunting a task Bayern faces heading into the second leg next week:

3 - Times Bayern has been shut out in last 31 matches

Goalless draws against Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund are the only other blemishes - from a goal-scoring perspective - on the Bavarian club's resume over the last 31 contests.

8 - UCL clean sheets for Jan Oblak this season

The Slovenian shot-stopper etched his name in the Atletico history books on Wednesday.

14 - Clean sheets in Atletico's last 16 home matches

Only twice in its last 16 Champions League outings on home soil has the Spanish side been forced to pick the ball out of its own net. The fans at the Vicente Calderon love Atletico Madrid, and Atleti obviously loves playing inside its fortress.

(Courtesy: Champions League)

135 - Clean sheets under Simeone in 256 matches

Since the Argentine tactician assumed his spot on the Atleti touchline, getting to the final whistle without having shipped a goal has become a frighteningly frequent occurrence for the club.

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