Arsenal 1-1 Atletico Madrid in UCL semifinal first leg

Arsenal and Atletico Madrid played out a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal on Wednesday at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, leaving the tie evenly poised ahead of next week's return leg at the Emirates Stadium.

Viktor Gyokeres gave Arsenal the lead in the 44th minute from the penalty spot after David Hancko fouled him in the area following a move involving Martin Zubimendi and Martin Odegaard. The Swedish striker powered his shot past Jan Oblak, who guessed correctly but could not keep it out.

Atletico leveled in the 56th minute when referee Danny Makkelie awarded a penalty after a video assistant referee review deemed Ben White's arm had blocked Marcos Llorente's volley. The ball struck White's arm after bouncing off his leg. Julian Alvarez converted confidently, sending his effort into the top corner beyond David Raya, who remained in the center of the goal.

The hosts dominated possession after halftime and created several chances. Antoine Griezmann struck the crossbar with an improvised shot and had another effort deflected wide, while Ademola Lookman fired straight at Raya from close range twice. Arsenal's defense stood firm,...