Oblak vs Raya — a goalkeepers' duel in the first half
The Metropolitano played its part as Atletico's 12th man from the very first minute. Simeone set his side up in a compact 4-4-2 defensive block, banking on quick transitions through Griezmann and Alvarez. Arsenal had just 49% possession but played patiently and pragmatically throughout.
The first half was a midfield battle. Odegaard and Zubimendi controlled the tempo; Rice snuffed out every counter-attack. Atletico fired 14 shots but only five tested the goalkeeper. Just before half-time, in the 44th minute, Viktor Gyokeres intercepted a poor Hancko pass, drove into the box, and beat Oblak with a precise finish — 0-1 to Arsenal.
Atletico level after the break
Simeone reorganised at half-time and Atletico came out pressing higher. In the 56th minute Ademola Lookman got ahead of Saliba at a corner and headed home to make it 1-1. Arsenal responded by making a series of substitutions — Lewis-Skelly, Eze, Saka, Havertz and Trossard all came on. The Gunners focused on holding the draw and succeeded.
A valuable result heading into the second leg
A 1-1 away draw is an excellent result for Arsenal going into the second leg at the Emirates. The Gunners need only a goalless draw at home to reach the final. Atletico must win — no easy task against Arteta's defensive organisation. Second leg on 5 May at Emirates Stadium.