Julian Alvarez's second-half penalty earned Atletico Madrid a 1-1 draw against Arsenal in a tense Champions League semi-final first leg at the Metropolitano Stadium. Both goals came from the spot.

Viktor Gyokeres put the Premier League leaders ahead just before halftime after being fouled by David Hancko. The Swedish striker converted the penalty himself, sending Jan Oblak the wrong way.

Atletico equalized in the 55th minute when Ben White handled Marcos Llorente's shot. Alvarez, who had missed a penalty in the Copa del Rey final shootout earlier this month, made no mistake this time.

Arsenal were furious late in the game when a penalty was overturned after a VAR review. Substitute Eberechi Eze went down under minimal contact from Hancko. Manager Mikel Arteta told TNT Sports: "I'm extremely disappointed and annoyed. You can't overturn that decision when you have to look at it 13 times."

Atletico dominated the second half, with Antoine Griezmann hitting the crossbar and Ademola Lookman missing several chances. However, Arsenal's defense held firm, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next week's second leg in London.

Atletico captain Koke said: "We were the team we have to be. If we play at this level, we can win." Arsenal's solid defending and counter-attacking threat kept them in the game despite being pinned back for long periods.

The match lacked the goal rush of the other semi-final between PSG and Bayern Munich but was filled with tension. Before kick-off, Atletico fans threw toilet paper onto the pitch in a striking protest.

Arsenal now face Fulham in the Premier League as they chase the title, while Atletico can rotate heavily in La Liga before the decisive second leg.

Source: www.aljazeera.com