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Arsenal's Champions League semi-final hangs in the balance after they drew their first leg against Atletico Madrid following a contentious late VAR decision. The Gunners, aiming to reach their first final in 20 years, broke the deadlock at the Metropolitano Stadium in the first half, having looked thoroughly comfortable throughout the opening period. Viktor Gyokeres was brought down but picked himself up to thunder home the opening goal from 12 yards.

Arsenal, whose Premier League form has faltered of late, were forced to withstand a relentless second-half onslaught from the hosts, who needed to raise their game. Julian Alvarez, himself the subject of summer transfer speculation linking him with a move to the Emirates, stepped forward to restore parity.

The Argentine had seen a free-kick narrowly miss the target before a Ben White handball handed him the opportunity to convert from 12 yards.

Antoine Griezmann struck the woodwork with a stunning effort before Ademola Lookman squandered a gilt-edged chance with the goal gaping, firing straight at David Raya. The visitors believed they had earned a third penalty of the evening, only for VAR to overturn a challenge on Eberechi Eze that had initially been awarded.

Here are our player ratings from the Spanish capital.

David Raya - 8

Made sensational saves from Lookman and Alvarez. No chance on Alvarez penalty.

Ben White - 6

Good defensively but offered less going forward. Unlucky to concede a penalty.

William Saliba - 7

Composed and good on the ball, stepped out of defence and also read danger.

Gabriel - 7

Strong in defence with some excellent blocks, one in the second half was sensational.

Piero Hincapie - 7

Was terrific again. Marauding runs down the left and was so strong in defence.

Martin Zubimendi - 6

Neat and tidy, kept the ball under pressure and used it well. Better performance.

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Declan Rice - 9

This was Rice at his best. Always looking for the ball, driving forward and was outstanding.

Martin Odegaard - 6

After his rabble-rousing pre-match message, the players really responded to their captain.

Noni Madueke - 8

A really good, positive performance down the right. Made things happen and was sharp.

Gabriel Martinelli - 6

Good pace down the left which helped open up the Atletico defence. Decent game.

Viktor Gyokeres - 8

One of his best displays in an Arsenal shirt. Scored, worked hard and was brave. Much better.

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Substitutes

Eze, for Odegaard, 58 mins, 6

Trossard, for Martinelli, 68 mins, 6

Saka, for Madueke, 68 mins, 6

Jesus, for Gyokeres, 68 mins, 6

Man of the match: Declan Rice.