Arsenal fans are furious with Simeone.

The first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid on the morning of April 30th ended in a 1-1 draw, but its aftermath revolved around a heated controversy surrounding coach Diego Simeone.

Arsenal fans are furious with Simeone. Photo: Reuters .

Arsenal took the lead in the first half thanks to a perfectly executed penalty from Viktor Gyokeres. However, the home side quickly responded after the break when Julian Alvarez also scored from the penalty spot, bringing the game back to a tie.

The second half saw Atletico dominate the game, but the Spanish team failed to capitalize on their opportunities to take the lead. Conversely, it was Arsenal who felt unfairly treated when they were awarded a second penalty after David Hancko collided with Eberechi Eze inside the penalty area.

Despite the impact, the level of controversy prompted the referee to consult VAR. After reviewing the screen multiple times, he decided to disallow the penalty, sparking a furious reaction from the Arsenal players.

Coach Simeone faces criticism. Photo: Reuters .

The focus then shifted to the behavior of coach Diego Simeone. According to camera footage and videos posted by fans, the Argentinian strategist left the technical area, repeatedly shouting and attempting to pressure the referee while he was reviewing the situation on the VAR screen.

TNT Sports commentator Steve McManaman didn't hesitate to criticize the action as "shameful." Meanwhile, a wave of outrage from Arsenal fans quickly erupted on social media.

Many have called for UEFA to impose retrospective punishment on Simeone. Some fans believe that if coach Mikel Arteta had acted similarly, he could have faced a lengthy touchline ban.

Speaking after the match, coach Diego Simeone said: “To award a penalty in a Champions League semi-final, it has to be a genuine foul. Hancko's impact was too small. I think it shouldn't have been a penalty.”

Atletico will have to play the second leg at the Emirates Stadium on May 6th.

Source: https://znews.vn/cdv-arsenal-phan-no-voi-simeone-post1647650.html