Arsenal held in controversial draw at Atletico

TDT | Manama

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Arsenal were left frustrated with refereeing decisions following their 1–1 draw against Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

The match at the Metropolitano was defined by three penalty incidents that ultimately shaped the outcome. Viktor Gyokeres gave Arsenal the lead from the spot before half-time after being brought down in the box, but Julian Alvarez equalised for the hosts with a penalty of his own following a handball decision against Ben White.

The biggest talking point came late in the game when Arsenal were awarded a second penalty after Eberechi Eze went down under a challenge from David Hancko. Referee Danny Makkelie initially pointed to the spot, but the decision was overturned after a VAR review.

The call sparked anger from Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who questioned why the original decision was changed. Arteta insisted there was no “clear and obvious error,” arguing that overturning the call had a major impact on the game.

Debate has since centred on whether VAR should have intervened. While the contact on Eze was minimal, similar incidents in recent matches have not been overturned, raising questions over consistency in officiating.