Epic draw in the Emirates Stadium. Atlético de Madrid completed an heroic mission as Red-and-whites get a good result in London despite a 80-minute period with a man down after an early sent-off to Vrsaljko. FC Arsenal started with an impressive attacking display and scored soon the opener through Lacazette. But the Spaniards reacted soon and with a strong attitude could held gunners on midfield. Griezmann finally hit the equalizer after a brilliant counter-attack getting a valuable draw for the second leg at Wanda Metroplitano. Fernando Torres played a 5-minute spell replacing the French striker. 

Šime Vrsaljko was sent off in the 10th minute after seeing two yellow cards. After being down a man, our team had to restructure itself and Thomas filled in at right-back.

On early stage Arsenal began to put lots of pressure and created great goalscoring opportunities. Whenever our defense couldn't handle the Gunners' offense, Jan Oblak made himself huge and kept us in the match with some great saves.
Step by step the Spaniards began feeling comfortable at the Emirates and created chances. David Ospina was strong below the sticks to deny Antoine Griezmann twice and a timid Kevin Gameiro header.

In the second half, Arsenal's one man superiority on the pitch was more present and Lacazette scored to give Arsenal the lead. However, Atletico never gave up and in the final stretch of the match, Griezmann scored the equalizer to get a fantastic result. There are still 90 minutes to go at the Wanda Metropolitano and Atleti never gives up!

- Matchs stats:

Arsenal: Ospina; Bellerín, Mustafi, Koscienly, Monreal; Ramsey, Xhaka, Wilshere; Welbeck, Lacazette y Özil.

Atlético de Madrid: Oblak; Vrasljko, Giménez, Godín, Lucas; Correa (Savic, 75’), Thomas, Saúl, Koke; Griezmann (Fernando Torres, 85’), Gameiro (Gabi, 66’).

Bookings: Clement Turpin (France). Sent-off Diego Pablo Simeone (13’) and booked Vrsaljko (2’, 10’).

Goals:

1-0 (61’) Lacazette.
1-1 (82’) Griezmann.


- Match report by fernando9torres.com / Atléticodemadrid.com