Atlético Madrid and Arsenal meet in a Champions League semi-final loaded with history, pressure and unfinished business, with both clubs still chasing the trophy that has repeatedly escaped them.
Atlético arrive lifted by a 3-2 win over Athletic Club, although Diego Simeone’s side have won only twice in their last nine competitive matches. Their European pedigree remains dangerous, however, having progressed from six of their last seven UEFA semi-finals, including a previous success against Arsenal.
Arsenal, meanwhile, returned to the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 victory over Newcastle, but they too have struggled for rhythm, winning only two of their last seven matches. Mikel Arteta’s side have impressed in Europe this season, winning all eight league phase matches before edging past Sporting 1-0 on aggregate.
The Gunners thrashed Atlético 4-0 earlier in the competition, but the Spanish side remain unbeaten at home in Champions League knockout matches against English opposition.
Julián Álvarez could again be decisive for Atlético after six goal contributions in his last four knockout matches, while Gabriel Martinelli remains Arsenal’s main European threat, having scored six times in this season’s Champions League.
Both sides also have fitness concerns, with Eberechi Eze, Kai Havertz and Pablo Barrios all withdrawn early at the weekend.
