The stage is set for a thrilling Champions League semifinal decider as Arsenal host Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, with a spot in the final on the line. After a tense 1-1 draw in the first leg at the Metropolitano, where Julian Alvarez and Viktor Gyokeres traded goals, both sides know that everything is still to play for in London.
For Arsenal, this match carries immense weight. Mikel Arteta's squad are fighting on two fronts, chasing their first trophy of the season while navigating the pressure of a packed schedule. Atletico, meanwhile, arrive with laser focus. With little left to play for in La Liga, Diego Simeone's men can pour all their energy into the Champions League, aiming for what would be their third final in 12 years—following heartbreaking losses to Real Madrid in 2014 and 2016. Adding to the emotion, this clash marks Antoine Griezmann's final chance to deliver European glory to his beloved club before his summer move to MLS side Orlando City.
Here's how the teams are expected to line up:
Arsenal XI: David Raya; Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Piero Hincapie; Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Martinelli; Viktor Gyokeres.
Atletico Madrid XI: Jan Oblak; Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, David Hancko, Matteo Ruggeri; Giuliano Simeone, Koke, Johnny Cardoso, Ademola Lookman; Antoine Griezmann, Julian Alvarez.
While Arsenal enter as slight favorites on home soil, Atletico's experience and defensive grit make them a dangerous opponent. Expect a tightly contested battle, with both sides pushing for a breakthrough. Prediction: Arsenal 2, Atletico Madrid 1.
Catch all the Champions League action on Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, and CBS Sports Golazo Network, with pre-match, live, and post-match coverage throughout the day.
