UCL: UEFA releases statement on Arsenal’s Eze cancelled penalty against Atletico

UEFA has explained why Arsenal was denied a late penalty in their Champions League semi-final first leg at Atletico Madrid.

Eberechi Eze, who had come on as a substitute in the second half, fell over inside the box in the 78th minute.

Referee Danny Makkelie initially awarded against Atletico defender David Hancko.

But despite Hancko making contact with Eze’s foot, the VAR intervened and asked Makkelie to review the incident at the on-pitch monitor.

After watching multiple replays, Makkelie decided to rule out the penalty-kick.

The decision left Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta fumming and called it “completely unacceptable”.

However, in a terse statement, UEFA said: “Atleti player, No 17, did not commit a foul on the opponent.”