Key Takeaways
- Ben White and Giuliano Simeone argued in the tunnel at half-time during the Champions League semi-final.
- The dispute started when White stepped on the Atletico Madrid badge on the floor.
- Giuliano Simeone may miss the second leg because of a hip injury.
The first leg of the Champions League semi-final between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid ended in a 1-1 draw at the Metropolitano Stadium. Viktor Gyokeres gave the Gunners the lead from the penalty spot, but Julian Alvarez scored an equaliser for the hosts after the break.
Tension rose as the players headed to the dressing rooms at half-time. Video footage showed Giuliano Simeone confronting Ben White in the tunnel. The Atletico Madrid midfielder appeared upset that the Arsenal defender had stepped on the club’s badge painted on the floor.
The argument continued until Diego Simeone, the Atletico coach and Giuliano’s father, pushed his son away from the incident. The pair were then led to their separate changing areas.
Giuliano may not feature in the return leg at the Emirates Stadium. He was replaced at half-time because of hip pain. Diego Simeone confirmed his son had been struggling with muscle discomfort following the Copa del Rey final last week.
The second leg takes place in London next week. Arsenal hold the advantage with an away goal, but Atletico will look to cause an upset on English soil. Medical staff will assess Giuliano’s fitness before the trip.