Berlin, Apr 6 (IANS): Atletico Madrid striker and Colombian international Falcao scored the winner to beat Hannover 2-1 in the quarterfinals of the Europa League.

Diego Simeone's side wrapped a second leg 2-1 win Thursday to edge out German club Hannover 4-2 on aggregate to ensure three Spanish teams at Europa League semi-finals.

Hannover dominated the first half but lacked the finishing touches as they failed to convert the chances on offer.

Nonetheless, with 18 minutes into second half Atletico shocked the host when striker Adrian Lopez Alvarez dribbled through penalty box to shrug off Hannover goalkeeper Zieler and his defence to curl home into the open goal.

Hannover were visibly on the back-foot but the leveller by Hannover striker Mame Biram Diouf sparked hopes nine minutes before final whistle. However, Madrid striker Falcao clinically utilized a chip pass to hammer home from penalty line into top left to eliminate Hannover from competition.

"We suffered two avertable goals. I'm still proud of the team as it has staged an incredible performance in Europa League," Hannover sports director Joerg Schmadtke was quoted as saying by Xinhua.