MADRID (AP) — Antoine Griezmann made the most of Wednesday’s final home match against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League.
Although Griezmann failed to score despite having a number of good chances, he led Atlético’s attack alongside Julián Álvarez and was named the match’s man of the match at the end of the match. 1-1 draw with Arsenal in the first leg of the semi-finals.
“It’s a shame that we couldn’t find the back of the net,” Griezmann said. Joins MLS club Orlando City This summer. “But it will definitely happen in the second leg. We all gave a great effort.”
Griezmann’s best chance at the Metropolitano Stadium came in the second half with a shot that hit the crossbar. He also came close to scoring with a shot from inside the area.
Griezmann, 35, missed a penalty in Atletico’s 2016 Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid.
“We want to reach the final,” Griezmann said. “It’s my dream. I’ve been preparing a lot for this match and the one in London. I’d like to get to the final if possible.”
The French playmaker said Atlético deserved a better result after improving in the second half at the Metropolitano.
“The bad play in the first half hurt a little bit,” Griezmann said. “We tweaked some things tactically towards the second half and were able to apply better pressure and make better movements. It also helped that the fans kept pushing us.”
Griezmann of Atlético All-time leading scorer This season, however, his minutes have been managed by manager Diego Simeone. He spent 10 seasons with Atlético. He also played for Real Sociedad and Barcelona.
Atlético midfielder Koke Resurreción said: “We all want to reach the final and we hope that the match in London will not be Griezmann’s last in this competition.”
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