Atletico Madrid held Arsenal to a draw; Griezmann: Hopefully we can reach the Champions League final.

Atletico Madrid, after trailing in the first leg of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League semi-final, drew 1-1 with Arsenal thanks to a penalty scored by Alvarez. French star Antoine Griezmann stated that the "Rojiblancos" will approach the second leg with the same intensity and hopes the team can advance to the final.

In the 42nd minute, Dzekeresh was brought down by Hansko while receiving a pass from Martin Zuwemendi, and the referee awarded Arsenal a penalty. Dzekeresh then converted the penalty, giving Arsenal a 1-0 lead.

In the 54th minute of the second half, Griezmann passed the ball to Llorente, whose shot touched Ben White's hand. After VAR intervention, Atletico Madrid were awarded a penalty. Alvarez then converted the penalty, leveling the score at 1-1 for Atletico Madrid.

Ultimately, Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 with Premier League leaders Arsenal at home.

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone said, "The first half was evenly matched. Arsenal may have had more possession, but they didn't create many chances. They have a very strong squad, and their substitutes are even more threatening than the starters. Even so, we played better in the second half."

"The opponent's intensity dropped in the second half, while we regained our organization. Our defense was more solid, and we created chances through Griezmann and Lookman."

Diego Simeone also said, "The atmosphere in this match was incredible; it's rare to see such a passionate atmosphere right from the start. While not all the fans may be able to attend the second leg, their hearts will be with the team."

Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann said, "We played better and with more intensity in the second half. That's the right direction, and we'll do the same in the second leg, which will be a great game."

“We want to reach the final. I have prepared well for this match and the second leg in London, and I hope we can make it to the final.”

In addition, Atletico Madrid will face Valencia in the next round of La Liga, and in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, they will travel to the Emirates Stadium to challenge Arsenal again.

Atletico Madrid midfielder Llorente said, "We had difficulty winning back possession and were a bit too hasty in the attacking third. This ultimately cost us because we didn't have many chances to begin with, and we didn't capitalize on the ones we did have."

"We need to increase the intensity and create more one-on-one opportunities in the offensive third. That's the key to keeping the team competitive."

Image source: Internet