A controversial VAR decision overturned a late penalty for Arsenal, leaving Mikel Arteta furious after a dramatic 1-1 draw against Atlético Madrid. The match took place on April 29, 2026, at the Metropolitano Stadium. Both teams scored from penalties, with Viktor Gyokeres netting for Arsenal and Julian Alvarez for Atlético.
Key facts:
- The match ended in a 1-1 draw.
- Viktor Gyokeres scored Arsenal’s goal from a penalty.
- Julian Alvarez scored Atlético Madrid’s goal from a penalty.
- A second penalty awarded to Arsenal was overturned by VAR.
- This was the first Champions League knockout-stage game with more than one goal, all from penalties, since the 2001 final.
Arteta expressed his disappointment after the match. He stated, “I’m extremely disappointed and annoyed. It was against the rules and changes the course of the tie. I’m very upset.” His frustration stemmed from the overturning of the late penalty that could have secured victory for his team.
Diego Simeone, Atlético’s manager, commented on the situation as well. He noted, “In my humble opinion, the player feels contact on his back and he drops down.” He also remarked that “the second one was not a penalty. Sometimes the VAR plays in your favour and sometimes it doesn’t.” This highlights the ongoing debate surrounding VAR decisions in football.
The match showcased impressive performances on both sides. Declan Rice completed 83 passes, marking the second-most by an English midfielder in a UEFA Champions League semi-final on record. Arsenal also equaled their longest-ever unbeaten run in the Champions League with 13 consecutive games without defeat.
Looking ahead, Arsenal will face Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday. Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid will play Valencia in LaLiga on Saturday as well. The second leg of this semi-final will take place at the Emirates Stadium, where both teams will aim to secure their spot in the final.
