After progressing to the semi-final in the Europa League, Arsenal’s hope of giving Arsene Wenger the perfect farewell bid was cut off by Atlético Madrid when Diego Costa’s goal in the first half paved the way for their progress to into the finals.
Arsenal’s 32-year-old captain Laurent Koscielny was down with an injury in the 12th minute was stretched off.
Despite having their captain off the pitch, Arsenal kept pressing forward in high spirits before Costa netted the goal post just before the end of the first half.
Before Costa’s goal, Alexandre Lacazette who scored the tie’s first goal was fed a wonderful pass by Aaron Ramsey…but the chance was missed.
In the second half, Arsenal continued to craft chances but Atlético’s exceptionally well-drilled defence always blocked their advances and multiple attempts to score a goal.
A counter attack was initiated but was wasted as Costa shot the ball narrowly wide from a good position in the area, this move could be in line with the game plan of banned Diego Simeone.
After several attempts by both clubs, Atlético clung on to secure a spot in competition’s finals.
Check out the Players Rating below:
Arsenal:
Ospina (5), Bellerin (4), Mustafi (5), Koscielny (5), Monreal (6), Xhaka (6), Ramsey (6), Wilshere (5), Ozil (5), Welbeck (5), Lacazette (5)
Subs: Chambers (7), Mkhitaryan (5)
Atletico Madrid:
Oblak (7), Thomas (6), Gimenez (6), Godin (8), Lucas (7), Gabi (6), Saul (6), Koke (7), Vitolo (6), Griezmann (7), Diego Costa (8)
Subs: Correa (5), Torres (5), Savic (5)
Diego Costa got the “man of the match” title.
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