Atletico Madrid have reportedly issued a complaint to UEFA after a group of Arsenal supporters set off a fireworks display outside their team hotel on the eve of the Champions League semi-final second leg. The incident occurred at the Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch in east London, where Diego Simeone's squad was staying ahead of the crucial match at the Emirates Stadium.
Fireworks Disrupt Atletico's Preparations
According to Spanish publication AS, the 'perfectly orchestrated' fireworks display began at 1:30am GMT, with a further round of pyrotechnics at 2am GMT. The report claims that Atletico bosses were quick to report the unwelcome incident to UEFA, and it is likely to be discussed during the teams' pre-match meeting. A short video circulating on social media shows a series of pink-coloured fireworks whistling past the hotel before letting off loud explosions in the night sky.
Social media users reacted with humour. One Arsenal fan quipped, 'Who would do such a thing?' while another joked, 'Massive coincidence.' A third added, 'I hope they got the lasagna as well,' referencing a notorious incident from 2004 when a lasagna meal was blamed for affecting Arsenal players before a crucial match.
Atletico Staff and Players Affected
A separate report from Marca claims that several of Atletico's staff and playing squad were directly affected by the fireworks display. Tensions were already high after Viktor Gyokeres and Julian Alvarez exchanged penalties in the first leg at the Metropolitano last week, leaving the tie evenly poised. Arsenal are favourites to advance to the final, boosted by Manchester City's 1-1 draw with Everton on Monday evening.
Arsenal's Previous Complaints
Before the first leg in Madrid, Arsenal made complaints of their own about the state of the Metropolitano pitch. The Gunners were unhappy with the length of the grass and asked UEFA to carry out an inspection just hours before kick-off. This latest incident adds to the growing tension between the two clubs as they battle for a place in the Champions League final.
More to follow.
