Viktor Gyokeres opening the scoring from the penalty spot. (Image: Getty)
Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final hangs in the balance after they drew their first leg against Atletico Madrid following a contentious late VAR decision. The Gunners, aiming to reach their first final in 20 years, broke the deadlock at the Metropolitano Stadium in the first half, having looked thoroughly comfortable throughout the opening period. Viktor Gyokeres was brought down but picked himself up to thunder home the opening goal from 12 yards.
Arsenal, whose Premier League form has faltered of late, were forced to withstand a relentless second-half onslaught from the hosts, who needed to raise their game. Julian Alvarez, himself the subject of summer transfer speculation linking him with a move to the Emirates, stepped forward to restore parity.
The Argentine had seen a free-kick narrowly miss the target before a Ben White handball handed him the opportunity to convert from 12 yards.
Antoine Griezmann struck the woodwork with a stunning effort before Ademola Lookman squandered a gilt-edged chance with the goal gaping, firing straight at David Raya. The visitors believed they had earned a third penalty of the evening, only for VAR to overturn a challenge on Eberechi Eze that had initially been awarded.
Here are our player ratings from the Spanish capital.
Made sensational saves from Lookman and Alvarez. No chance on Alvarez penalty.
Good defensively but offered less going forward. Unlucky to concede a penalty.
Composed and good on the ball, stepped out of defence and also read danger.
Strong in defence with some excellent blocks, one in the second half was sensational.
Was terrific again. Marauding runs down the left and was so strong in defence.
Neat and tidy, kept the ball under pressure and used it well. Better performance.
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Declan Rice was outstanding (Image: Getty)
This was Rice at his best. Always looking for the ball, driving forward and was outstanding.
After his rabble-rousing pre-match message, the players really responded to their captain.
A really good, positive performance down the right. Made things happen and was sharp.
Good pace down the left which helped open up the Atletico defence. Decent game.
One of his best displays in an Arsenal shirt. Scored, worked hard and was brave. Much better.
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Eze, for Odegaard, 58 mins, 6
Trossard, for Martinelli, 68 mins, 6
Saka, for Madueke, 68 mins, 6
Jesus, for Gyokeres, 68 mins, 6
Man of the match: Declan Rice.