Arsenal fury as VAR overturns penalty; Rice faces UEFA probe over crowd influence claim

Key facts

• Arsenal's late penalty was overturned after VAR review in the 78th minute.
• Referee Danny Makkelie initially awarded the spot-kick for a foul by David Hancko on Eberechi Eze.
• UEFA stated that Hancko did not commit a foul, offering no further clarification.
• The match ended 1-1; Viktor Gyökeres scored for Arsenal, Julián Alvarez equalized for Atletico.
• Declan Rice claimed the Atletico fans 'provoked the decision and changed the ref’s mind.'
• Rice risks UEFA disciplinary action for his post-match comments.
• The second leg will be played at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.

A penalty awarded, then overturned

Arsenal were denied a late penalty in the 78th minute of their Champions League semi-final first leg at Atletico Madrid, sparking fury from manager Mikel Arteta and midfielder Declan Rice. Referee Danny Makkelie initially pointed to the spot after substitute Eberechi Eze went down under a challenge from Atletico defender David Hancko. However, after a VAR review, Makkelie was sent to the pitchside monitor and reversed his decision, judging the contact insufficient. UEFA released a brief statement explaining that 'Atleti player, No 17, did not commit a foul on the opponent.' European football's governing body declined to provide further clarification when approached. The decision left the match tied at 1-1, with the second leg set for next Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium.

Arteta's fury and UEFA's stance

Mikel Arteta did not hide his anger after the match, calling the decision 'completely unacceptable' and saying it was 'against the rules.' The Arsenal manager's outburst echoed the frustration felt by his players and fans. UEFA, which introduced VAR to intervene only for 'clear and obvious mistakes,' stood by the decision, but its lack of detailed explanation has fueled criticism. The incident has become a major talking point, especially given the high stakes of a Champions League semi-final. Arsenal had taken the lead through Viktor Gyökeres's penalty on the stroke of half-time, only for Julián Alvarez to equalize from the spot 11 minutes into the second half. The draw leaves the tie finely balanced.

Rice's accusation and disciplinary risk

Declan Rice's reaction was caught on camera as he expressed disbelief from the pitch. After the match, the midfielder went further, suggesting the hostile atmosphere at the Metropolitano Stadium influenced the officials. 'I think the fans provoked the decision and changed the ref’s mind,' Rice said. He added that in the Champions League, referees are 'very quick to make decisions' and that players are 'penalized more in European competitions.' Rice's comments could now land him in trouble with UEFA, which takes a strict stance on remarks that undermine referees. Reports indicate the governing body will review the referee's report and Rice's post-match statements to determine whether disciplinary action is required. The situation is particularly sensitive given Rice's past disciplinary history, having previously received a suspension for criticizing officiating decisions.

Simeone's praise and Atletico's perspective

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone praised his team's supporters, saying the atmosphere was 'incredible' and that 'rarely have we seen such enthusiasm.' He dismissed the notion of luck, emphasizing 'determination' instead. Captain Koke acknowledged that Arsenal defended well and have fast players up front, but insisted 'it will all come down to the second leg.' Forward Antoine Griezmann noted that Atletico played with more intensity in the second half and promised a great game in the return leg. The match in Madrid was part of a thrilling Champions League semi-final round, which also saw Paris Saint-Germain defeat Bayern Munich 5-4 in a wild encounter. Paris captain Marquinhos described it as 'a crazy game,' while coach Luis Enrique said he had 'never seen a game with that rhythm before.'

The second leg and what lies ahead

Arsenal will now shift focus to the second leg at the Emirates Stadium, where the winner will secure a place in the Champions League final. The Gunners will hope to capitalize on home advantage after the 1-1 draw in Madrid. However, the build-up could be complicated if UEFA proceeds with disciplinary action against Rice. Arsenal's Viktor Gyökeres, who scored the opening goal, said the team knows 'it's only half-time,' while Arteta acknowledged that 'the margins are very slim.' Atletico, meanwhile, will travel to north London confident after a strong second-half performance. The tie remains wide open, with both teams having shown they can score and concede. The second leg promises to be a tense affair, with a place in the final at stake.

The bottom line

• Arsenal were denied a late penalty after VAR review; UEFA said no foul was committed.
• Mikel Arteta called the decision 'completely unacceptable' and 'against the rules.'
• Declan Rice claimed the Atletico fans influenced the referee, risking UEFA disciplinary action.
• The first leg ended 1-1, with goals from Viktor Gyökeres and Julián Alvarez.
• The second leg at the Emirates Stadium will decide who advances to the Champions League final.
• Rice's past disciplinary history could lead to a suspension if UEFA takes action.