Three Arsenal stars were heroic in a 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid, as VAR drama overshadowed the Champions League semi-final first leg at the Metropolitano. The Gunners had a penalty overturned in the 78th minute, leaving Mikel Arteta to bemoan what might have been.
Defensive Resilience
Arsenal had to dig in defensively, with standout performances from Declan Rice, David Raya, and Gabriel. The unbeaten run in the Champions League was extended to 13 games, equalling a club record. Viktor Gyokeres also produced one of his best performances in an Arsenal shirt, battling for every ball and smashing home a penalty for his 19th goal of the season.
VAR Controversy
The match was marked by two penalties, one overturned. Arsenal felt hard done by after David Hancko's challenge on Eberechi Eze was initially given and then overturned by VAR. Atletico boss Diego Simeone was seen screaming into referee Danny Makkelie's ear during the review. Julian Alvarez converted for Atletico after Marcos Llorente's shot hit Ben White's body and deflected onto his arm.
Arsenal were sharp in attack and much the better team in the first half, with Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli causing problems. Gyokeres' powerful run set up Martin Odegaard for a big chance, but Johnny Cardoso made a great block. Arsenal went ahead when Gyokeres was pushed in the back by Hancko, and he converted the penalty.
Second Half Pressure
At half-time, Simeone switched to five at the back, pushing Arsenal back. Atletico improved, with Ademola Lookman denied by Raya and Gabriel making a great block from Antoine Griezmann. A penalty was given against White, and Alvarez fired home. Arsenal survived an onslaught as Griezmann hit the bar, but they finished strongly and should have had another penalty.
Ultimately, honours even ahead of next week's second leg at the Emirates. Arteta would have taken this result before kick-off, and Arsenal have a wonderful chance to reach next month's final.
