Arsenal aims to reach the Champions League final for the first time since 2006, backed by a strong home record against Spanish teams. They will face Atlético Madrid at Emirates Stadium. Both clubs have struggled in their quest for European glory.
Key statistics:
- Arsenal and Atlético Madrid have played 223 and 190 matches in the European Cup without winning it.
- Arsenal is unbeaten in their last six away games in the Champions League.
- Atlético Madrid has won only one of their last six Champions League matches against English teams.
- Arsenal’s recent 4-0 victory over Atlético Madrid is their joint-heaviest defeat in the competition.
Mikel Arteta expressed pride in reaching this stage again, stating, “It’s a massive privilege to be here again, two years in a row at the same part of the Champions League.” His team has lost just two of their last 23 Champions League matches. This consistency gives them confidence going into the semi-final.
Diego Simeone acknowledged Atlético’s achievement, saying, “It’s extraordinary that Atletico Madrid is in a Champions League semi-final again after nine years and after doing it for the fourth time in 14 years.” However, his team has struggled away from home recently. They lost six of their last seven games against Premier League sides.
Player highlights:
Viktor Gyökeres could become the third player to score in both legs of a Champions League semi-final for a Premier League team. and Julián Álvarez leads with high-intensity pressures at 899 this season.
David Raya has conceded 13 goals from an expected goals (xG) total of 22.9. The goalkeeping performance will be crucial as Arsenal looks to capitalize on their home advantage.
Both teams have an opportunity to make history. Arsenal’s good record at home in second legs when leading bodes well. They have progressed in eight of their previous ten such instances.
