Story perspectives

Arsenal-Atletico 1-1; VAR scraps penalty, Arteta outraged

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Arsenal and Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 in the Champions League semi-final first leg after two penalties.
Hancko fouled Gyokeres, who scored first penalty, while White’s handball led to a second penalty that Julián Álvarez converted.
After David Hancko clipped Eberechi Eze, a penalty was awarded in the 78th minute, which Video Assistant Referee (VAR) later overturned after 13 replays, prompting Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to call the decision “completely unacceptable.”

History

Historical Context

FIFA’s council approved VAR on 16 March 2018, and the system produced its first World Cup goal on 15 June 2018, contributing to 22 spot-kick goals in the tournament. Six years later, Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid saw manager Mikel Arteta protest a VAR reversal after 13 replay views, intensifying calls for clearer protocols before the 2024 Champions League knockout stage.

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Story summary

Arsenal and Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 in the Champions League semi-final first leg after two penalties.
Hancko fouled Gyokeres, who scored first penalty, while White’s handball led to a second penalty that Julián Álvarez converted.
After David Hancko clipped Eberechi Eze, a penalty was awarded in the 78th minute, which Video Assistant Referee (VAR) later overturned after 13 replays, prompting Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to call the decision “completely unacceptable.”

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