Mikel Arteta expressed his fury after VAR controversially overturned a late penalty for Arsenal in their 1-1 Champions League semi-final first leg draw against Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano. The Gunners took the lead through Viktor Gyokeres, who converted a spot kick just before half-time, but Julian Alvarez equalised from the penalty spot after Ben White was penalised for handball.
Controversial Decision
With ten minutes remaining, Eberechi Eze appeared to win a penalty when he was brought down by David Hancko's outstretched leg. Referee Danny Makkelie initially pointed to the spot, but after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned, much to the dismay of Arteta and his players.
Arteta described the decision as "incredibly fuming" and stated that it "changes the course of the tie." He added, "It's against the rules. I cannot understand why it was overturned."
Match Overview
The first half saw Arsenal dominate possession and create several chances, but they struggled to break down a resilient Atletico defence. The breakthrough came in the 43rd minute when Gyokeres was fouled in the box and calmly slotted home the resulting penalty. Atletico improved after the break, and their pressure paid off when Alvarez scored from the spot after White's handball.
Both teams had opportunities to win the game in the second half, but neither could find a decisive goal. The tie remains finely poised ahead of the second leg at the Emirates next Tuesday.
Reactions
Atletico captain Koke acknowledged the team's slow start but remained optimistic: "We gave it our best shot. We started off on the back foot, but we had chances to win. It will all come down to the second leg."
Arsenal's Gyokeres looked ahead to the return leg: "We know when we play at home with our fans it will be different. We just have to do our job and be at our best."
Player of the match Antoine Griezmann added: "We played better in the second half with more intensity. That's the way to go, and we'll do that in London. Hopefully we can make it to the final."
Looking Ahead
Both teams have domestic fixtures this weekend before the decisive second leg. Arsenal host Fulham on Saturday, while Atletico travel to Valencia. The Champions League semi-final second leg promises to be a tense affair, with everything still to play for.
