Article by Alexandru Stanciu – Published on Thursday, 30 April 2026, 07:57 / Updated on Thursday, 30 April 2026 08:05
Viktor Gyokeres opened the scoring for the Gunners in the 44th minute, and Atletico Madrid managed to restore parity in the 56th minute through Julian Alvarez. Both goals were scored from penalty kicks.
Diego Simeone, after Atletico Madrid – Arsenal 1-1: “I have rarely seen such great enthusiasm”
“In the first half it was a perfect balance. Maybe they had more possession but they didn't create more chances.
Arsenal have a very strong reserve bench: when the reserves come in, they become better than the starters. Even in these conditions, we were better in the second half.
Then they relaxed a little, and we organized ourselves better. We were better in defense and created chances through Griezmann and Lookman.
Today, the atmosphere in the stadium was incredible. I have rarely seen such great enthusiasm as we had today at the start of the match.
Not all supporters will be with us in the second match, but their hearts and souls will be,” said Diego Simeone, according to sportal.bg.
Almost certain of a place in the top 4 of La Liga, Atletico Madrid will focus exclusively on the return of the semi-final of the Champions League.
On the other side, Arsenal also have the pressure of the Premier League, where they are in the first place, with 73 points obtained in 34 stages. Opponent Manchester City has 70 points, but a less contested match, and the fight for the title can go to the last stage.
The second leg of the Champions League semi-final will be played on May 5. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid will play away to Valencia on May 2, while Arsenal will host the London derby against Fulham on the same day.
