Arsenal drew 1-1 with Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, with Viktor Gyokeres and Julian Alvarez both scoring from the penalty spot
Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final hangs in the balance after they were held to a draw in their first leg against Atletico Madrid following a contentious late VAR decision.
The Gunners, chasing a first final in 20 years, broke the deadlock at the Metropolitano late on after dominating a first half in which they were completely at ease. Viktor Gyokeres was brought down but picked himself up to net the opener from the spot.
Arsenal, whose Premier League form has declined recently, were forced to endure a second-half onslaught from their hosts, who inevitably had to raise their game. Julian Alvarez stepped forward to deliver the equaliser.
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The Argentine had watched a free kick flash just wide before Ben White’s handball gave him the opportunity to convert from the spot.
Antoine Griezmann rattled the frame with a stunning strike before Ademola Lookman wasted a golden chance with the goal gaping, shooting directly at David Raya.
The visitors believed they had earned a third penalty of the evening, only for VAR to assist in overturning a foul on Eberechi Eze that was originally awarded, reports the Mirror.
David Raya, 8 – Produced outstanding stops to deny Lookman and Alvarez. Powerless to prevent Alvarez’s penalty.
Ben White, 6 – Solid defensively but contributed little in attack. Unfortunate to give away a penalty.
William Saliba, 7 – Calm and assured in possession, advanced from the back and also anticipated danger well.
Gabriel, 7 – Solid at the back with some superb blocks, one in the second half was absolutely brilliant.
Piero Hincapie, 7 – Was magnificent once more. Surging forward down the left flank and rock-solid defensively.
Martin Zubimendi, 6 – Tidy and composed, retained possession under pressure and distributed effectively. Improved display.
Declan Rice, 9 – This was Rice at his absolute peak. Constantly demanding the ball, charging forward and was exceptional.
Martin Odegaard, 6 – Following his rousing pre-match rallying cry, the squad truly answered their skipper’s call.
Noni Madueke, 8 – A genuinely impressive, attacking display down the right wing. Created opportunities and looked razor-sharp.
Gabriel Martinelli, 6 – Excellent pace down the left which helped unlock the Atletico backline. Solid outing.
Viktor Gyokeres, 8 – One of his finest showings in an Arsenal jersey. Found the net, grafted tirelessly and showed courage. Much improved!
Substitutes:
Eze, for Odegaard, 58 mins, 6
Trossard, for Martinelli, 68 mins, 6
Saka, for Madueke, 68 mins, 6
Jesus, for Gyokeres, 68 mins, 6