Arsenal were left frustrated as a late penalty award was overturned by VAR, allowing Atletico Madrid to escape with a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final at the Wanda Metropolitano. Viktor Gyokeres and Julian Alvarez both converted from the spot, but the game's defining moment came when referee Danny Makkelie rescinded a penalty for Arsenal after consulting the pitchside monitor.
The incident occurred in the 78th minute when substitute Eberechi Eze appeared to be caught by David Hancko. Makkelie initially pointed to the spot, but after reviewing the footage, he ruled the contact was insufficient. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was furious, saying: "I'm extremely disappointed and annoyed. It was against the rules, I don't understand it and it changes the course of the tie."
Arteta also questioned the consistency of the officiating, noting the penalties given to both teams. "They have been consistent so if you're going to give a penalty for that kind of thing, you have to accept it," he said. "But the one that changes everything is the penalty on Ebs. That cannot happen at this level."
Despite the disappointment, Arsenal remain in a strong position ahead of next Tuesday's second leg at the Emirates. "We did a lot of very positive things," Arteta added. "We are in an incredible position – semi-final of the Champions League, we have to play in front of our people, and it is in our hands."
Atletico Madrid were the better side overall, controlling much of the second half, but Arsenal grew into the game and had chances to win. The tie remains finely poised, with both teams aware they could have won or lost the first leg.
