Saka: We won't be truly satisfied if we don't win.

Arsenal, nicknamed "The Gunners," were held to a 1-1 draw by Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their 2025/26 UEFA Champions League semi-final, after taking the lead in the first half thanks to a penalty from Dzekeresh. However, they conceded a penalty in the second half. Saka stated that the draw wasn't bad, but the team wouldn't be truly satisfied without a win.

In the 42nd minute, Dzekeresh was brought down by Hansko while receiving a pass from Martin Zuwemendi, and the referee awarded Arsenal a penalty. Dzekeresh then converted the penalty, giving Arsenal a 1-0 lead.

In the 54th minute of the second half, Griezmann passed the ball to Llorente, whose shot touched Ben White's hand. After VAR intervention, Atletico Madrid were awarded a penalty. Alvarez then converted the penalty, leveling the score at 1-1 for Atletico Madrid.

In the 78th minute, Eze went down in the penalty area while vying for possession, and the referee awarded Arsenal a penalty. However, after reviewing the VAR, the referee overturned the penalty decision.

Ultimately, Arsenal drew 1-1 with Atletico Madrid away from home.

Arsenal striker Saka said, "We have mixed feelings. Perhaps we would have preferred to take the win, but a draw is acceptable. This is only the first half, and we are confident about the game back at the Emirates Stadium. We are really looking forward to that game and will go into it with full confidence."

"A draw isn't bad, but we won't be truly satisfied without a win, given the quality of our team. We want to win, and we'll work hard to achieve that next week."

It's worth mentioning that Arteta's team has maintained a 13-game unbeaten record in the Champions League this season. Saka said, "It's a wonderful thing to be able to play in such a stadium and in such a competition. It's a dream moment for any player."

“We are really looking forward to the game back at home next week. I believe the atmosphere there will be much better than this game, which will definitely give us a lot of motivation. Of course, we also hope to continue this unbeaten record.”

In addition, Dzekeresh said in an interview, "We controlled the game very well in the first half and created some good scoring opportunities, and we took one of them. They started the second half better, and maybe they deserved to score. We also had some good chances towards the end of the game."

"Overall, it was a tough match. We know this is a difficult place to beat, but it was only the first round."

Dzekeresh added, "We know that everything will be different when we return home and have the support of our fans. We just need to do our best and play our best, and the home game will definitely be very exciting."

Image source: Internet