Arsenal claimed a 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg at the Emirates Stadium, advancing to the final 2-1 on aggregate
Atletico started brightly, producing the game’s first attempt in the eighth minute. Giuliano Simeone combined with Julian Alvarez, but the Argentine could not get his effort on target.
Moments later, Declan Rice had to be alert, making a crucial block to prevent Simeone from connecting with Antoine Griezmann’s cross.
Arsenal struggled to created any clear cut chance, but had two penalty appeals waved away after the half hour mark, as Griezmann fouled Leandro Trossard, before Rice’s shot struck David Hancko’s arm.
The hosts broke the deadlock just before the stroke of half-time. Bukayo Saka swept home from close range after Jan Oblak saved Trossard’s initial effort.
Saka has now registered nine goals and five assists in 10 appearances in the competition at the Emirates Stadium.
Two minutes into the second period, Ademola Lookman missed the chance to draw the visitors level, failing to turn home a dangerous cross.
Simeone then went close after getting past David Raya and looked set to score, but Gabriel made a last ditch recovery to avert the danger.
Arsenal survived a tense VAR check after Gabriel’s challenge, with the decision eventually going in their favour.
Viktor Gyokeres squandered a golden chance to double Arsenal’s lead, volleying over the bar from close range, following Piero Hincapie’s low cross into the area.
The Gunners saw out the rest of the game easily, qualifying for the Champions League final for the first time in 20 years.
