Arsenal’s bid to reach their first Champions League final in 20 years hangs in the balance after a controversial 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in Spain. Viktor Gyokeres fired Arsenal into the lead with a penalty after he was fouled by David Hancko in the area in the last minute of the first half. Referee Danny Makkelie pointed to the spot and VAR did not intervene.
Julian Alvarez also scores from the spot
Julian Alvarez also scored from the spot when Marcos Llorente’s volley struck Ben White’s hand following a VAR review with 56 minutes gone. Referee Makkelie was originally unmoved but was urged by VAR to check his pitchside monitor and he reversed his decision.
Arsenal denied a second penalty
Arsenal were then denied a chance to restore their lead when referee Makkelie overturned his on-pitch decision to award the visitors another penalty when Eberechi Eze was sent tumbling by Hancko’s outstretched right leg. Makkelie watched at least a dozen replays before electing to chalk off the spot-kick which, if converted, would have handed Arsenal a significant advantage ahead of next week’s return leg at the Emirates Stadium.
The decisions have sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, with many questioning the consistency of VAR interventions. Arsenal will now need to secure a win in the second leg to progress to the final.
