Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal LIVE: Game on! (0-0) 2026 UEFA Champions League semifinals first leg

Atletico Madrid face Arsenal in a massive clash for the 2026 UEFA Champions League semifinals first leg. Stay here for all the minute-by-minute updates of this high-stakes match!

Updated on April 29, 2026 03:10PM EDT

**© Getty Images**Antoine Griezmann of Atletico Madrid and Declan Rice of Arsenal.

Atletico Madrid welcome Arsenal to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano for the first leg of their 2026 UEFA Champions League semifinal. Both clubs are looking to secure an advantage before the series moves to London next week for the decisive second leg.

Diego Simeone’s side reached this stage after a gritty 3-2 aggregate victory over domestic rivals Barcelona. Meanwhile, Arsenal secured their spot in the final four with a narrow 1-0 aggregate win over a resilient Sporting Lisbon.

For Atletico Madrid, with the LaLiga title already out of reach, all focus has shifted toward finally capturing the elusive Champions League trophy that has twice slipped through their fingers in finals. However, standing in their way is an Arsenal squad currently sitting atop the Premier League table. The Gunners are in peak form and are equally determined to claim their first-ever European crown.

04:07PM

5'- Arsenal with the first chance of the game (0-0)

After a brilliant piece of skill on the wing, Noni Madueke whipped a dangerous cross into the box and Piero Hincapie managed to connect with the ball, but his effort went just over the crossbar.

03:02PM

GAME ON!

The game between Atletico Madrid and Arsenal is underway!

02:57PM

Players are on the pitch!

Players from both teams are on the field for the Champions League anthem. Everything is ready for the start of the match!

02:50PM

Why is Bukayo Saka not starting for Arsenal?

Mikel Arteta decided not to start Bukayo Saka as the English star is still finding his rhythm after a grueling injury layoff. The forward remains on a day-to-day recovery plan as Arsenal prioritize his long-term match fitness.

02:40PM

Today's referees

Danny Makkelie has been appointed to officiate the clash between Atletico Madrid and Arsenal. He will be joined on the field by Hessel Steegstra and Jan de Vries, who are set to serve as the assistant referees.

Full officiating team:

Referee: Danny Makkelie (NED)
Assistant Referee 1: Hessel Steegstra (NED)
Assistant Referee 2: Jan de Vries (NED)
Fourth official: Serdar Gozubuyuk (NED)
VAR: Dennis Higler (NED)

02:25PM

Both teams doing warm up activities

Players for both sides have taken the field for warmups at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano!

02:10PM

Why are Havertz and Timber not playing for Arsenal?

Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber won't play today for Arsenal as they are sidelined with injuries. The German forward missed the trip after failing to recover fully from a groin issue, while the Dutch defender continues dealing with a muscular setback.

02:00PM

Atletico Madrid lineup confirmed!

Atletico's starting XI: Jan Oblak; Marcos Llorente, David Hancko, Marc Pubill, Matteo Ruggeri; Giuliano Simeone, Koke, Johnny Cardoso, Ademola Lookman; Antoine Griezmann, Julian Alvarez.

01:40PM

Arsenal lineup confirmed!

Arsenal's starting XI: David Raya; Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Piero Hincapie; Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard; Noni Madueke, Victor Gyokeres, Gabriel Martinelli.

01:20PM

Kickoff time and where to watch

Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal will get underway at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano at 3:00 PM (ET).

Fubo will be the primary option to watch Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal in the USA. The others options to enjoy the game are: DirecTV Stream, DAZN, Paramount+, Hulu + Live TV, CBS, TUDN and ViX.

01:00PM

Atletico Madrid and Arsenal clash in the 2026 UEFA Champions League!

Welcome to our live blog of the 2026 UEFA Champions League. Atletico Madrid host Arsenal at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in their first leg of the semifinals!

Stay with us for all the action and minute-by-minute updates of this exciting game!

Gianni Taina

Gianni Taina is a bilingual journalist, fluent in English and Spanish, with a specialization in soccer, NBA, and tennis. He began his professional career in 2020 with Mundo Deportivo US, where he first established himself as a writer. Throughout his career, Gianni has covered major sports events such as the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the NBA Finals, and Grand Slam tournaments like the French Open. His ability to report on real-time events and perform well under pressure has made him a valuable member of a top-tier team of journalists. In 2024, he joined Bolavip US, bringing his expertise in soccer, NBA, and tennis to deliver original content while providing live coverage of important events.