Atlético Madrid 1 – 1 Arsenal: Player Ratings

Dávid Hancko

The Slovakian’s first game back from injury had mixed results. Not entirely his fault, but unfortunate to give up a controversial penalty in the dying moments of the first half. Hancko got lucky later in the match when when second penalty called by the referee on Atleti ended up getting overturned. 5

Marc Pubill

Another solid performance by Pubill. Appeared to shift into a right-wing-back role in the second half following Robin Le Normand entering the match. Not his most comfortable position, but he still made the best of it. 7

Marcos Llorente

What position did Marcos Llorente not play today? Llorente continues to show time and time again that he is Simeone’s most reliable and versatile player. The Spanish international can provide support in attack, track back in defense and provide stability in the midfield regardless of where he’s being played. 7

Koke

The long-time Atleti captain truly has aged like fine wine and the fact he’s consistently playing 90 minutes in critical cup competitions is not talked about enough. The director of the orchestra kept Atleti’s midfield organized for most of the match, outside of the error leading to the first penalty from Arsenal. 6

Johnny Cardoso

Cardoso did not slot in to Barrios’ role in midfield, but in fairness, that is not where he is best. Fantastic block to deny Odegaard’s chance early in the first half. When he was acting in his typical “pivot” role, the American did well. Made way for Nahuel Molina in the 88th minute. 5

Ademola Lookman

It was not a good first half for the Nigerian. Perhaps still not 100% match-fit, Lookman was not able to break down Ben White like many were anticipating before the match began. Ademola Lookman had a few good chances in the second half, but ultimately could not convert. 5

Giuliano Simeone

The Argentine winger’s run of poor form continues. Simeone struggled to defend Gabriel Martinelli and did not do much to cause Arsenal stress on their left flank. Subbed off for Robin Le Normand at halftime. 4

Antoine Griezmann

The Atleti legend’s final Champions League match at home ends in a draw. The Frenchman was very unlucky to see his chance in the 60th minute hit the crossbar. Outside of the chances, Griezmann tracked back effectively and served his maestro role effectively to help start plenty of Atleti attacks. Poetic that he was given the Player of the Match award. Regardless of what happens in London, we’ll all miss magical nights from Griezmann in Madrid. 7

Julián Alvarez

Unlucky to be denied by a big save from David Raya early in the match. For most of the first half, Alvarez was the entirety of Atleti’s attack. Simply wonderful penalty after the Arsenal handball in their own box. Moments after the match, it was revealed that Julián Alvarez left with ankle discomfort and is a concern for the return leg, which explains why he was swapped for Baena in the 77th minute. 8

Substitutes:

Álex Baena

Swapped on for in the minute the exhausted Alvarez in the 78th minute. Helped start a couple of attacks in the dying moments, but did not offer much in limited minutes. 5

Nahuel Molina

Brought on in the 89th minute for Johnny Cardoso. Can you imagine if he converted that howler from outside the box in stoppage time? n/a

Robin Le Normand

Entered the match at halftime for Guiliano Simeone. Another solid performance defensively from the Spaniard. Perhaps he’s motivated to secure his spot with the Spanish national team, but hopefully Le Normand can continue to string together good performances for Simeone. 6