Atletico Madrid are sweating on the fitness of two key players ahead of their Champions League semi-final against Arsenal in London next week. Julian Alvarez was a major concern after suffering ankle pain in the second half of the first leg, but the Argentine has escaped injury. However, Norwegian striker Alexander Sorloth picked up a hamstring strain in the warm-up and was unable to feature, while Pablo Barrios is also a doubt after a knock in the match.
The good news for Diego Simeone is that Alvarez was able to play through the pain barrier and completed the full 90 minutes. The 23-year-old was instrumental in Atletico’s 2-1 win, scoring one goal and providing an assist for the other. Alvarez’s ankle pain was evident in the second half, but he continued to play on, refusing to be substituted.
Key moments
The match was a physical one, with both teams giving it their all in the second leg. Atletico’s win sets up a thrilling finale in London, where the winner will secure a spot in the Champions League final. Alvarez’s goal came in the 58th minute, while his assist was crucial in Atletico’s second goal, scored by Rodri in the 82nd minute.
The match was marked by some controversy, with Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard being sent off in the 88th minute for a second yellow card. The incident sparked a heated debate among fans and pundits, with some calling for a more lenient approach to discipline in the Champions League.
Reaction
Diego Simeone was relieved to hear that Alvarez had escaped injury, saying: “We were worried about Julian, but thankfully he’s okay. He played through the pain barrier and was crucial in our win.” Atletico’s coach also praised his team’s resilience, saying: “We showed a lot of character and determination to come back from behind and win the match.”
Atletico’s victory sets up a thrilling finale in London, where the winner will secure a spot in the Champions League final. The match is set to be played at the Emirates Stadium on May 3, with kick-off at 8pm BST.
Up next
Atletico Madrid travel to the Emirates Stadium on May 3, kick-off 8pm BST.
References
- AP
- Marca
- AS
- Sport
