An agonizing draw that leaves the door to the final open

El Cholo and the VAR: An Agonizing Draw that Leaves the Door to the Final Open

Simeone analyzes the tension of the match against Arsenal and the refereeing controversy in the Champions League.

The heart of Atlético de Madrid beat strongly in the Metropolitano. After a vibrant Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal, the score ended in a draw, leaving the tie completely open for the second leg in London. Diego Simeone, the eternal leader from the mattress bench, appeared before the media to explain the keys to a duel that had everything: emotion, controversy and the unmistakable red and white claw.

The Argentine coach, true to his style, was cautious when faced with questions about referee decisions, especially after the annulment of a penalty against Arsenal after a VAR review. “I never give my opinion on the opinions of my colleagues. Nothing to say,” said Simeone, avoiding the controversy to focus on sports.

The feelings after the meeting were one of pride and hope. The atmosphere in the stadium was described by Cholo as “incredible, wonderful, a gift from the people to the team.” The communion between fans and players was palpable, a factor that, according to the coach, drives the team to continue fighting in a competition as demanding as the Champions League.

The first half of the match was characterized by greater calm, with Arsenal showing danger in their transitions, although without generating excessive clear scoring chances. However, in the second half, Atlético de Madrid adjusted their approach, and despite the fatigue accumulated by both teams, especially by Arsenal in their fight for the Premier League, the red and whites began to dominate the game.

The final stretch of the match was a mattress siege. The team created multiple dangerous situations, almost scoring the winning goal. The interventions of the rival goalkeeper, a providential save by a defender on the line and a shot against the crossbar were witnesses of the athletic insistence. The goal, which would have been a crucial advantage, was resisted.

“What's left? An extraordinary challenge: London, Arsenal's field, a team that has not lost in the Champions League, with enthusiasm and with everything we have,” said Simeone, already looking at the complicated second leg.

Regarding the controversy over the canceled Arsenal penalty, Simeone explained his vision of the plays. “The first penalty, in my opinion, there is contact with his back turned, the player waits for the contact and shoots. In the Champions League semi-finals, a penalty is needed that is really a penalty. The referee understood that it was,” he commented. Regarding the play that was signaled after VAR, he added: “On the other occasion he understood, thanks to the VAR, that it was a penalty, because first it was not a handball, and then, in the second, also thanks to the VAR, that it was not a penalty. The VAR sometimes gives you and sometimes takes it away.”

Concerns about possible physical losses of key players such as Giuliano, Julián and Sorloth were addressed by the coach. “Honestly, knowing them, on Tuesday they will be safe. I can't imagine that any of them will be missing,” said Simeone, detailing the discomforts of each one: a blow for Giuliano, a fall for Julián and a load on the ischium for Sorloth, but with the conviction that they will be available.

The performance of Koke and Griezmann was highlighted by the coach. “What was seen: hierarchy, talent and quality,” he praised. Regarding Griezmann, he pointed out his ability to appear in key moments: “It seems like the game goes by and, instead of getting tired, he starts to find places to do something different. I thought about taking him out, but I said: no, let's leave him because something always happens.” He also praised Lookman's work, both in defense and attack, and how the team has made an important player understand the importance of their collective contribution.

The team's defensive level was another of the strengths analyzed. “Yes, we were solid,” said Simeone. The defensive solidity was reinforced with the entry of Le Normand, and the good work of Marc, Llorente, Hancko (who played with pain) and Ruggeri. “The team showed more consistency, more control of what happened when it was our turn to defend,” he added. Simeone insisted on the need to maintain and improve that defensive performance for the next matches.

The question about whether the team had “hit the table” was answered with gratitude towards the fans and emphasis on the team's resilience. “The reception, the energy, the enthusiasm of the people after losing a final makes me happy. There are no more words to thank for the love and affection,” he declared. “But the team does not lower its arms, it is always fighting, it stands up in the face of adversity,” he stressed. The demonstration of strength and energy, with veteran players like Koke and Griezmann giving their all, and the quality of the substitutes, was a clear indication of the group's mentality.

Finally, regarding the schedule and whether it played in Atlético's favor, Simeone focused on the quality of the rival. “We fought against a great team,” he acknowledged. Arsenal's bench depth, evidenced by the quality of the players coming off the bench, was a factor to consider. The enthusiasm for the challenge of London, despite the difficulty, is what motivates the coach and his team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the coach of Atlético de Madrid?

The coach of Atlético de Madrid is Diego Simeone.

Which team did Atlético de Madrid play against in the Champions League semi-final?

Atlético de Madrid played against Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final.

What was the result of the semi-final first leg?

The result of the first leg of the semi-final was a draw.

Which Atlético de Madrid player was highlighted for his performance?

The performances of koke and Griezmannas well as the work of Lookman.

Are significant casualties expected for the second leg?

The coach trusts that players like Giuliano, Julian and Sorloth They will be available despite your inconvenience.

Where will the second leg of the semi-final be played?

The second leg will be played in Londonon the Arsenal field.

How important is VAR in referee decisions?

The VAR can be decisive, sometimes in favor and sometimes against, as was seen in the controversial plays of the match.

How would Simeone describe the atmosphere at the Metropolitano?

He described it as “incredible, wonderful, a gift from the people to the team.”

What does Simeone think about his team's defensive strength?

He considers that the team was solid and that it is essential to maintain and improve that defensive performance.

What do you think of the challenge of playing the second leg in London?

He considers it an “extraordinary challenge” and “fantastic”, despite being very hard.

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