London: Arsenal will look to end a 20-year wait for a UEFA Champions League final appearance when they host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their semifinal on Tuesday. The tie remains finely poised after a 1-1 draw in Madrid last week, with both sides scoring from penalties as they chase a first European Cup title.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed the team’s strong desire to reach the final after two decades. Arteta emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, stating, “After 20 years to be in this position again, we are so hungry to get the game that we want on Tuesday and go through to that final.” Arsenal had previously defeated Atletico 4-0 at home during the league phase in October, though Atletico coach Diego Simeone anticipates a more disciplined performance from his side.
Simeone remarked, “I’m going to try to tell the team to play like they did in the second half in Madrid. If it’s that easy it would be great. We have a lot of faith in what we’re doing.” Both teams have received boosts with key players returning from injury. Forward Julian Alvarez is expected to play for Atletico, while Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard and forward Kai Havertz are available.
Atletico have reached the Champions League final twice under Simeone, in 2014 and 2016, losing both times to Real Madrid. Arsenal’s only final appearance came in 2006, when they were beaten by Barcelona. The winner will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final. PSG lead 5-4 from the first leg ahead of Wednesday’s return match.
In domestic news, Arsenal’s pursuit of their first Premier League title in 22 years received a boost after Manchester City drew 3-3 with Everton. Arsenal can secure the title by winning their remaining three matches. Meanwhile, Atletico are currently fourth in La Liga, trailing leaders Barcelona by 25 points.