Victor Gokeres scored the first goal from the penalty spot. (Image: Getty)
Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final is in jeopardy after a controversial late VAR decision in the first leg against Atletico Madrid resulted in a draw. The Gunners, aiming to reach their first final in 20 years, broke the deadlock in the first half at the Metropolitano Stadium, where they had looked entirely comfortable throughout the opening game. Victor Gokeres was brought down but got back up and opened the scoring from 12 yards.
Arsenal, who have been on a slump in Premier League form of late, were forced to endure a relentless onslaught in the second half from the hosts, who needed to spice things up. Julian Alvarez, himself the subject of summer transfer speculation in connection with a move to the Emirates, has come forward in a bid to restore parity.
The Argentine’s free-kick narrowly went wide, but Ben White’s handball gave him a chance to convert from 12 yards remaining.
Antoine Griezmann had a great shot and with the goal open, Ademola Lookman missed a golden opportunity and fired a shot towards David Raya. The visitors believed they had earned their third penalty of the night, but an initial challenge to Eberechi Eze was overturned by VAR.
Here are the ratings for the players from the Spanish capital:
Lookman and Alvarez made sensational saves. No chance due to Alvarez’s penalty.
He was excellent defensively, but his contribution to the front was low. It was unlucky to concede the penalty.
He’s calm and good on the ball, able to break through defenses and read danger.
He was strong defensively, had some great blocks, and his block in the second half was sensational.
It was wonderful again. Marauding ran down the left side and was very strong defensively.
We were tidy, kept pressure on the ball and used it well. Better performance.
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Declan Rice was great (Image: Getty)
This was Rice at his best. The way he always aimed for the ball and moved forward was outstanding.
After his raucous pre-match message, the players responded seriously to their captain.
Really good, positive performance in the bottom right. He made things happen and was sharp.
He contributed to breaking down Atletico’s defense with his good pace from the left side. Decent game.
One of his best performances in an Arsenal shirt. He scored, worked hard and was brave. Much better.
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Eze vs. Odegaard, 58 minutes, 6
Trossard, substitute for Martinelli, 68 minutes, 6
Saka to Maduke Island, 68 minutes, 6
Jesus, for Gokeres, 68 minutes, 6
Man of the Match: Declan Rice.
