Arsenal penalty VAR controversy explained as UEFA defends decision to overturn late penalty call in Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) on Thursday defended a disputed refereeing decision that saw Arsenal Football Club denied a late penalty during their Champions League semi-final first leg against Atlético Madrid at the Estadio Metropolitano.

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The incident occurred in the 78th minute when Arsenal substitute Eberechi Eze went down inside the penalty area after contact with Atlético defender David Hancko. Referee Danny Makkelie initially awarded a penalty.

Following intervention from Video Assistant Referee officials, Makkelie was instructed to review the challenge on the pitchside monitor.

After studying multiple replays, he overturned his original decision and allowed play to continue.

The call triggered strong reaction from Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who described the ruling as “completely unacceptable” after the match, expressing clear frustration at the turning point of the contest.

UEFA later issued a brief statement backing the officials, saying: “Atleti player, No 17, did not commit a foul on the opponent.”

The explanation has intensified debate over VAR consistency in elite European football, where marginal decisions continue to influence high-stakes matches.

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The tie remains evenly poised heading into the second leg in London.