Both sides are chasing history, with neither club having lifted Europe’s most prestigious trophy. Awaiting the winner in the final at the Puskás Aréna will be either Bayern Munich or reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Atletico Madrid are back in the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since the 2016–17 season after edging past Barcelona 3-2 on aggregate. Under the guidance of Diego Simeone, Atletico have evolved from their traditionally defensive approach into a more attacking force, scoring a club-record 34 goals in this season’s competition.
Their recent 3-2 La Liga victory over Athletic Bilbao ended a difficult domestic run and ensured they remain competitive in the top four. However, their record against English sides raises concern, with just two wins in their last 12 European meetings.
Still, Atletico’s home form against English opposition offers encouragement, having lost only twice in their last 18 such matches in Madrid.
For Arsenal, this marks a historic moment. Mikel Arteta has guided the club to back-to-back Champions League semi-finals for the first time. The Gunners progressed past Sporting CP in a tight quarter-final and remain unbeaten in this season’s competition.
Arsenal topped the league phase with a perfect record and have lost just two of their last 22 Champions League matches. Despite recent domestic inconsistencies, their narrow win over Newcastle United has restored confidence as they continue their Premier League title push.
Their record against Spanish teams is particularly impressive, winning their last seven Champions League matches against La Liga opposition. They also travel to Madrid having lost just once in their last 11 away games in the competition.
Team News
Atletico will be without Pablo Barrios and José Giménez due to injury, while Ademola Lookman and David Hancko remain doubts. Julián Álvarez is also being monitored but could start alongside Antoine Griezmann or Alexander Sørloth.In midfield, Koke is expected to anchor the side, with support from Marcos Llorente or others.
For Arsenal, injuries continue to impact selection. Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber are sidelined, while Kai Havertz, Eberechi Eze, and Martin Zubimendi face late fitness checks.
Bukayo Saka could return to the starting lineup after making a substitute appearance recently, while Viktor Gyökeres may lead the attack.
Possible Lineups
Atletico Madrid:Oblak; Molina, Le Normand, Lenglet, Ruggeri; Simeone, Koke, Cardoso, Gonzalez; Griezmann, Alvarez
Arsenal:
Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli
Prediction
Atletico Madrid 1-1 Arsenal
