Arsenal have reported Atlético Madrid to Uefa over their tactical approach during the Champions League semi-final second leg at the Emirates Stadium. The north London club are understood to have filed a formal complaint after the match, which Arsenal won 1-0 to reach the final for the first time since 2006.
The complaint centres on what Arsenal believe were deliberate time-wasting and overly defensive tactics employed by Atlético manager Diego Simeone. Arsenal sources indicated that they felt the Spanish side's approach was unsporting and contrary to the spirit of the competition.
Atletico had several players booked for delaying restarts, and the match saw frequent stoppages. Arsenal's Bukayo Saka scored the only goal in first-half stoppage time, capitalising on a parried shot from Leandro Trossard. The hosts dominated possession but struggled to break down a deep-lying Atlético defence.
Uefa will now review the complaint and could take disciplinary action against Atlético if they deem the tactics to have breached regulations. Arsenal's move is unusual but reflects the high stakes of the tie, with the winner advancing to face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta declined to comment on the complaint after the match, focusing instead on his team's performance. 'We are delighted to be in the final,' he said. 'The players showed great character and quality against a very experienced side.'
