AFCON 2025
Atletico Madrid and Arsenal played out a quite competitive draw in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final clash in Madrid on Wednesday night.
It was a game of two halves, and a tale of penalties, as neither side could score from open play.
Viktor Gyokores gave Arsenal the lead from the penalty spot two minutes before the break after he was shoved in the back in Atletico Madrid’s box.
However, the Atletico Madrid were awarded a penalty 10 minutes into the second half, and Julian Alvarez converted to restore parity.
The hosts dominated proceedings afterwards and pressed to go ahead in the match.
Antoine Griezmann’s goal-bound strike came off the crossbar while David Raya dived to the ground quickly to save Ademola Lookman’s shot on goal the box.
The introduction of Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Jesus has given the Gunners a bit of control and fluidity going forward.
Eberechi Eze thought he had won Arsenal another penalty after what appeared to be a 50-50 call in the box.
However, upon review, the centre referee rescinded his initial decision as the game ended 1-1 with all to play for in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium next week.
