Mikel Arteta sharply criticized the refereeing decisions following the 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid in the Champions League semi-final. He described the VAR-led reversal of a penalty awarded to Eberechi Eze as "absolutely unacceptable." Goal.com reports on the matter.
In the 78th minute of the match, substitute Eze was brought down by David Hancko. Referee Danny Makkelie initially awarded a penalty but overturned his decision after a lengthy VAR review.
Arteta emphasized that this situation influenced the outcome of the game.
In a post-match interview, Arteta stated: "After going back to the dressing room, talking to the boys, and seeing the penalty situation, it is very disappointing and frustrating because it was against the rules and it changed the course of the game." He added that after reviewing the decision 13 times, it should not have been overturned.
Penalties played a significant role in the match. Initially, Viktor Gyökeres put Arsenal ahead, but later Julian Alvarez equalized for Atletico.
The penalty awarded for Ben White's handball in the penalty area also sparked controversy.
Former footballer Jamie Carragher also criticized the refereeing decisions in the Champions League, expressing concerns regarding the handball rules. Arteta, meanwhile, said he would leave the matter of filing an official protest to the club's management.
Despite this, Arteta remains positive about his team's chances of reaching the final. He praised his players' performance in a difficult situation and hopes to secure a victory in front of their own fans in the return leg.
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