Declan Rice Backs Arteta’s Fury Over ‘Clear’ Arsenal Penalty Decision

Declan Rice insists Arsenal were denied a “clear” penalty in Champions League semifinal draw
Midfielder claims referee was influenced by Atlético Madrid crowd pressure
Gunners remain confident ahead of decisive second leg at Emirates Stadium

Declan Rice has reinforced Mikel Arteta’s anger over a controversial penalty decision, insisting Arsenal were wrongly denied a spot-kick in their 1-1 Champions League semifinal draw with Atlético Madrid.

The flashpoint came late in the first leg in Madrid when referee Danny Makkelie overturned his original decision to award a penalty after Eberechi Eze was fouled in the box. Following a VAR review and amid intense pressure from the home crowd, the decision was reversed.

Rice did not hide his frustration, suggesting the atmosphere inside the stadium played a role in the outcome.

“It’s a clear penalty. I don’t know how that’s not been given,” he said. “I think the fans provoked the decision and changed the ref’s mind.”

The controversy was one of two key VAR calls that went against Arsenal. Earlier, defender Ben White was penalised for handball, allowing Julián Álvarez to equalise from the spot after Viktor Gyökeres had opened the scoring with a penalty of his own.

Rice suggested officiating standards differ significantly between domestic and European competitions, with less margin for interpretation.

“In the Champions League, referees are really quick to make decisions,” he said. “You have to be so careful in both boxes because they give everything.”

Despite the frustration, Arsenal remain well placed heading into the return leg at the Emirates Stadium. The draw extended their unbeaten run in the competition and leaves the tie finely balanced.

Bukayo Saka, who made his return from injury as a substitute, called on supporters to create an even stronger atmosphere in the second leg as Arsenal chase a first Champions League final appearance since 2006.

The Gunners must now quickly refocus on domestic matters, with a crucial Premier League clash against Fulham looming as they look to maintain pressure on title rivals Manchester City.

With both silverware and European progression on the line, Arteta’s side face a defining stretch in their season.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.