Madrid [Spain], April 30 (HBTV): Argentina striker Julian Alvarez surpassed legend Lionel Messi to become the fastest player from his country to reach 25 goals in the UEFA Champions League.
Alvarez played a key role in keeping Atletico Madrid’s bid for a fourth Champions League title alive, converting a penalty in the 56th minute as their clash against Arsenal FC in Madrid ended in a 1-1 draw.
The 25-year-old has now scored 25 goals in 41 Champions League matches, overtaking Messi, who reached the milestone in 42 matches. Sergio Aguero follows, having achieved the feat in 48 matches.
The all-time leading scorers in the competition remain Cristiano Ronaldo with 141 goals, Messi with 129, and Robert Lewandowski with 109.
The second leg between Atletico and Arsenal on May 6 in London will determine who advances to the final against either Bayern Munich or defending champions Paris Saint-Germain, with PSG holding a 5-4 advantage after a high-scoring first leg.
The first half saw several half-chances before Viktor Gyokeres broke the deadlock in the 44th minute, converting a penalty just before halftime.
Players including Piero Hincapie, Martin Odegaard, and Noni Madueke created opportunities for Arsenal, while Alvarez tested goalkeeper David Raya early in the match. Gyokeres opened the scoring after being fouled by David Hancko.
Atletico responded 12 minutes into the second half when Alvarez converted from the spot following a handball by Ben White.
The side managed by Diego Simeone dominated much of the second half but failed to convert chances, with Antoine Griezmann hitting the crossbar and Ademola Lookman troubling Raya. The score remained level, sending the tie to a decisive second leg in London. (ANI)