Ademola Lookman’s Atletico Madrid played out a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal clash at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Wednesday.
Lookman, who scored the crucial goal to send the Spanish side to the final four, played the full 90 minutes, and had some good moments in the tense fixture.
Atletico started the game strongly and got their first chance in the 14th minute when Alvarez shot was saved by David Raya. At the other end, Noni Madueke’s bending effort went just wide.
Just before halftime, Arsenal were awarded a penalty after Gyokeres was bundled over by Hancko in the box. The Swedish striker stepped up and fired his effort beyond Oblak, giving the visitors the lead.
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10 minutes into the second half, Atletico got a penalty of their own. Marcos Llorente’s volley from a corner struck the arm of Ben White. After a VAR check, the spot kick was given. Julian Alvarez stepped up and converted the penalty, leveling the score line.
The goal gave the hosts momentum, and they came close to gaining the lead shortly after. Lookman was denied by Raya, before Griezmann’s effort crashed against the woodwork.
Lookman had another chance to score in the 74th minute after his brilliant touch took him past Ben White. However, the winger was unable to convert, as his shot went straight to Raya.
Arsenal were awarded another penalty in the 78th minute after Eze was tripped by Hancko. However, following a VAR check, the decision was overruled.
The Gunners continued to push for a crucial late goal, but Atletico defended resiliently in the closing stages to see out the 1-1 draw.
Atletico will now turn their attention to the La Liga where they face Valencia on Saturday. After that, they will travel to London for the decisive second leg at the Emirates on Tuesday, May 5.
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