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Arteta Decries VAR Penalty Reversal in 1-1 Draw

4/30/2026

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Summary

Makkelie Reverses Penalty

Referee Danny Makkelie reversed a penalty after 12-13 VAR reviews, ruling no spot-kick.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta called the reversal unacceptable and said it changes the tie.
The match ended 1-1, with Arsenal scoring first on a penalty and Atlético equalising.
Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher debated the handball penalty given to Ben White.
Arsenal will host the leg in London, with Arteta saying result leaves everything in our hands.

Summary

Arsenal Defends

Arsenal held 48% possession and 11 shots while Atletico had 52% possession, 18 shots and an xG of 2.22 to 1.50.
Defenders Gabriel (6.9), William Saliba (7.5) and Piero Hincapié (7.4) earned top ratings.
Mikel Arteta moved Declan Rice deeper, where his interceptions shielded the defence.
Around 70,000 Atletico fans threw toilet-paper, creating a white curtain.
Diego Simeone said Arsenal eyed Julian Alvarez, adding a transfer angle.

Summary

Arsenal Complains

Arsenal filed a UEFA complaint over the Metropolitano pitch after the match.
Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid manager, announced squad rotation for the club’s La Liga games as it has little at stake.
Arsenal’s next Premier League game versus Fulham is pivotal in their title race.
Commentators ridiculed the pre-kick toilet-paper rain as a cynical stunt.
The draw kept Arsenal on course to reach their first Champions League final in 20 years.

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Makkelie Reverses Penalty

Referee Danny Makkelie reversed a penalty after 12-13 VAR reviews, ruling no spot-kick.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta called the reversal unacceptable and said it changes the tie.
The match ended 1-1, with Arsenal scoring first on a penalty and Atlético equalising.
Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher debated the handball penalty given to Ben White.
Arsenal will host the leg in London, with Arteta saying result leaves everything in our hands.

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