The UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg between Atletico Madrid and Arsenal was tense as the two teams entered the game cautiously but still created many turning points. Arsenal actively controlled the ball, while Atletico patiently waited for counter-attack opportunities.
The turning point came at the end of the first half. In the 43rd minute, David Hancko fouled in the penalty area, bringing a penalty for Arsenal. From the 11m spot, Viktor Gyokeres finished accurately, opening the score 1-0 in the 44th minute, helping the away team take the advantage before halftime.
In the second half, Atletico pushed up the squad. In the 55th minute, after consulting VAR, referee Danny Makkelie determined that Ben White had a handball in the penalty area. Julian Alvarez successfully converted a penalty in the 56th minute, bringing the match back to 1-1 balance.
After the equalizer, the game became more open. Antoine Griezmann almost helped Atletico take the lead when his shot hit the crossbar in the 63rd minute. On the other side, Arsenal strengthened their attack with the appearance of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.
Drama increased in the 78th minute when Arsenal was awarded another penalty after Hancko's foul. However, after reviewing VAR, the referee decided to cancel it, creating a major controversy.
In the final minutes, Atletico suffered losses when Alvarez was injured and left the field, while Arsenal actively slowed down to preserve the score. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, reflecting the balanced game.
