Players from Atletico Madrid expressed satisfaction with their performance following a 1-1 draw against Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final at the Metropolitano. While there was a tinge of disappointment for not taking a lead to London next week, the players felt content with their response after going a goal down.
Julian Alvarez scored the equalizer via a penalty, with his strike partner Antoine Griezmann named man of the match. Griezmann shared his thoughts, saying, “My biggest dream is to reach the final. I’ve prepared a lot for this match and the second leg, and I hope we can make it,” as quoted by Marca.
Griezmann noted, “Our second half was much better in terms of intensity and pressing. That’s the approach we need for the second leg. It will be a challenging game, but that’s the allure of football. Conceding at the end of the first half stings. We made a few tactical adjustments to enhance our pressing, which made a difference. Our fans really pushed us on.”
He added, “I had three opportunities but couldn’t convert. I’m determined to make an impact in the second leg. We all performed well, and now we must channel our focus into that half.”
Marcos Llorente: ‘Efficiency is Key’
Griezmann expressed frustration over the missed chances, a sentiment echoed by Marcos Llorente.
“Everything is still in play for the second leg. They dominated the first half, while we excelled in the second. That’s what we’ll take from this,” Llorente stated in an interview with MD.
“If chances aren’t converted, you ultimately pay the price. The second half showcased the direction we need to go. We have to take more risks, play man-to-man, and press high. Precision in the final third is crucial, as it makes the difference.”
The Spain international emphasized that the team which proves most effective will emerge victorious next week. “Next week’s match will be another battle. Both teams possess distinct strategies and strengths. Whoever is more efficient will likely win,” he stated.
Johnny Cardoso: ‘We must replicate the second half’s intensity’
Later in the match, Llorente subbed in for Johnny Cardoso, who felt both teams were evenly matched. “I don’t see anyone as favorites. We have confidence in ourselves and know we can play exceptionally well to qualify,” he mentioned while speaking to MD in the mixed zone.
“Sure, playing at home, you ideally want a more favorable result. We know this is a Champions League semi-final, and matches can hinge on small details. In the first half, we had chances but lacked clinical finishing. However, our second half improved significantly, with added intensity, leading to more opportunities, and we could have secured a better outcome.”
Cardoso was hesitant to comment on the penalty calls when speaking to CBS Sports. “Honestly, I didn’t view it after the game, so I can’t draw a conclusion, but our penalty was a clear handball.”
“We need to approach the game with the same intensity we displayed in the second half, win our duels, be ourselves, and relish the moment. We know it will be a challenging match, filled with intensity, and we must be prepared for anything.”
Jan Oblak: ‘The power outpaced me on the penalty’
Veteran goalkeeper Jan Oblak echoed the sentiments to TNT Sports, agreeing with the referee’s decision not to award a second penalty to Arsenal following a VAR review.
“It was an intense game from both sides. We aimed for three points, as did they. I believe we performed well, but it’s 1-1 with two penalties, and everything remains in discussion for London. When penalties aren’t given, it’s typically preferable. Had they occurred, I would have stopped one; unfortunately, I couldn’t stop the first. The referee reviewed it, and I concur with his decision.”
Oblak attempted to save Viktor Gyokeres’ penalty but was unable to react in time.
“Yes, I would say the power outpaced me. I was close and positioned well, but he struck with maximum power. It was unfortunate. I’m frustrated, but that’s behind us. Now, we must focus on the league this weekend and the second leg in London,” he reflected.
This marks the second encounter between the two teams, following their meeting during the league phase at the Emirates, which concluded with a 4-0 victory for Arsenal. Oblak, however, was unfazed by that match. “I believe we shouldn’t dwell on that game. We lost 4-0 to a great team like Arsenal, but I expect this encounter to be different. We will do everything we can to reach the final,” he stated.
“Honestly, our focus isn’t on winning it just yet. First, we must concentrate on our performance on the pitch and navigate the second leg. Similar to Arsenal, they also aim to capture the Champions League, but we must clear this hurdle first,” he concluded.
‘We need a flawless performance to advance’
Oblak later discussed with Spanish media in the mixed zone about the necessity for a perfect game against Arsenal next week.
“We all need to execute a perfect game on Tuesday if we aim to advance to the final. We pursued the win today, but we didn’t achieve it. We limited Arsenal’s opportunities and created several of our own. While we leave feeling positive, it’s unfortunate we didn’t secure the win, but everything is still at stake in the second leg, and we need to elevate our performance,” he told MD.
“While it’s not ideal to leave without a win, everything remains open. Sometimes, having an advantage can complicate matters. What’s essential is that the team left a good impression.”
The return leg is scheduled for next Tuesday at the Emirates at 21:00 CEST. Diego Simeone expressed satisfaction with his team’s response in the second half, while Mikel Arteta expressed frustration over the decision to cancel the second penalty, feeling it altered the course of the tie.