Atlético de Madrid vs Arsenal

Metropolitano Stadium
D. Makkelie
2025/2026

Match Report

The first leg of this Champions League semifinal at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano ended all square, with Atlético Madrid and Arsenal sharing a hard-fought 1-1 draw — capped by a late VAR twist that denied the visitors a potential winner. Viktor Gyökeres broke the deadlock from the spot in the 44th minute after David Hancko fouled him inside the box. Atlético levelled on 57 minutes when Julián Álvarez stepped up confidently after Ben White's arm deflected a corner. Antoine Griezmann then rattled the crossbar in the 62nd minute, and Eberechi Eze was denied a late penalty after VAR determined he was already falling before any contact from Hancko. With the tie perfectly poised, both clubs will believe they can progress. Arsenal showed resilience and clinical edge on the road, while Atlético Madrid, true to Simeone's defensive formula, clawed back level and made life uncomfortable right to the final whistle. Everything is still to play for in north London.

Match Events

44'
56'
78'
D. Hancko(Unsportsmanlike conduct)

Statistics

52%Possession48%
18Shots11
4Shots on Target2
6Corners1
7Fouls11
0Offsides1
1Yellow Cards0
505Passes480
1Saves3