Diego Simeone spoke after Atlético de Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Arsenal, in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals, and did not avoid the controversy over the match’s penalties. The Argentine coach was direct when referring to the second penalty awarded in favor of the Gunners, which was annulled after the VAR review.
“To take a penalty in the Champions League semi-finals it has to be a clear penalty, not minimal contact,” Simeone stated, and made his position clear on a decision that generated debate throughout the world of European football.
The match also left physical concerns for Atlético. Julián Álvarez had to leave the field limping in the second half, and Simeone acknowledged that he will be tested. “Let’s hope it’s as little as possible, I’m optimistic,” The coach pointed out his top scorer in the Champions League, with 10 goals this season. Giuliano Simeone was also substituted due to physical discomfort, and the coach explained that he received a blow to the waist, while Sørloth was reserved as a precaution after feeling discomfort in his leg.
Regarding the development of the match, Simeone considered that the first half was even, but that in the second half his team grew. “In the second half it was good for us. We had our chances to win it, but we were not forceful. They lowered their intensity a little and we grew in our order”analyzed the strategist, who highlighted the chances of Griezmann and Lookman that could not be achieved to give the red and white team the victory.
The VAR controversy and criticism of Simeone
The first leg of the semifinals was also marked by the VAR controversy and the tense atmosphere on the Atlético bench. Analysts and former English football players criticized Diego Simeone’s behavior during the review that annulled the second penalty in favor of Arsenal. Steven Gerrard considered that the coach’s insistence on the referee’s field of vision could have influenced his decision.
Martin Keown stated that there was no clear error that justified the VAR review and pointed out that the referee gave in to pressure from the environment. Steve McManaman described the attitude of Simeone and his coaching staff as inappropriate, considering that the protests generated an unproductive environment for a match at this stage.
The second leg will be played on Tuesday, May 5, at 1:00 p.m., at the Emirates Stadium in London, with the aggregate 1-1. Atlético will arrive with physical doubts about Álvarez and Giuliano Simeone, while Arsenal will seek to take advantage of their home field to advance to the final in Budapest on May 30.