The red-and-white squad could not overcome the semifinal challenge, with Bukayo Saka's goal just before halftime proving decisive. This outcome means there will be no Spanish teams in the final of the prestigious continental tournament.
From the outset, Arsenal took the initiative, though Atlético also created chances. A combination between Antoine Griezmann and Giuliano Simeone in the 7th minute resulted in a weak shot from Julián Álvarez that lacked power. The English side responded almost immediately with a high shot from Riccardo Calafiori.
Atlético found attacking avenues down the right flank, with Giuliano and Marcos Llorente making notable runs. Despite the high press from Diego Pablo Simeone's men, Arsenal gradually gained ground, with Bukayo Saka finding spaces and Declan Rice adding dynamism from deep.
“"People are not satisfied with just reaching the semifinal."
The clearest chance for the Londoners came in the final minutes of the first half. Following a play involving William Saliba and Viktor Gyökeres, Leandro Trossard's shot was saved by a great intervention from Jan Oblak. However, Saka capitalized on the rebound to score the 1-0 in the 44th minute.
After the break, Atlético attempted to react. Giuliano had a clear opportunity in the 51st minute but failed to convert into an empty net. The red-and-whites also appealed for a possible penalty on Griezmann, but the referee did not award it. Arsenal could have extended their lead with a missed shot from Gyökeres, while Julián Álvarez had to leave the field due to physical discomfort.
With Álex Baena and Thiago Almada on the pitch, Atlético sought the equalizer to force extra time, but attacking clarity was scarce. Llorente tried from long range, and Alexander Sorloth squandered the last major chance in the 88th minute. Arsenal managed to hold onto their lead and secure their place in the final.
After the match, coach Diego Pablo Simeone lamented the elimination but highlighted the club's growth during his tenure. He stated feeling “calmness” and “peace,” assuring that the team “gave absolutely everything they had.” He also defended his team's competitiveness throughout the tie, noting that they competed “very well” against a team of “incredible power.”
“"Football is about effectiveness; they were more effective than us and are fair deserving of going through."
Atlético's midfielder summarized the tie with resignation, acknowledging the opponent's effectiveness. He admitted that the locker room was “very hurt and very upset,” but also “proud” for having pushed Arsenal “against the ropes” at many moments of the semifinal.
