Atletico Madrid faces Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final next week and will be determined to secure a positive result in the opening leg. Even though there will be another opportunity in the return fixture, both clubs know the importance of taking momentum into the second match.Many observers believe Arsenal are favourites to win the tie and progress to the Champions League final. However, that view overlooks the fact that Atletico Madrid eliminated Barcelona to reach this stage, a result that underlines the quality and resilience within the Spanish side.Atletico Madrid Cannot Be OverlookedAtletico remain one of Europe’s leading teams, and it would be unwise to dismiss their chances. The club has been in strong form, and their recent performances suggest they are fully capable of competing with any opponent left in the competition.Arsenal will also recognise that this tournament may offer a clearer route to major silverware than the Premier League. For that reason, they are expected to approach the semi-final with complete focus and intensity, knowing how significant the opportunity could be.Injury Concerns Before First LegThere may, however, be concerns for Atletico ahead of the first meeting. Standard Sports reports that Alexander Sorloth and Ademola Lookman are both injured at the moment, and they missed Atletico’s latest match. Their availability for the first leg remains uncertain.The injuries are not considered serious, but both players are still touch-and-go. Atletico are therefore not yet certain whether either player will be ready for the upcoming matches, although there is confidence that they could recover in time.Regardless of who is selected, Arsenal must prepare thoroughly for what is expected to be Atletico’s strongest possible side. Any player chosen for a fixture of this magnitude is likely to deliver his highest level in such an important contest.This semi-final promises to be fiercely competitive, with both teams carrying genuine ambitions of reaching the final. Arsenal may be viewed by some as favourites, but Atletico’s pedigree and current form mean they remain a dangerous opponent capable of upsetting expectations._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsAtletico Madrid sweating over fitness of two players before Arsenal game24 April 2026, 13:00Arsenal gets a huge boost as key Newcastle man could miss game24 April 2026, 12:00Arsenal star named in off-field scandal involving other players in his country24 April 2026, 11:00The post Atletico Madrid sweating over fitness of two players before Arsenal game appeared first on Just Arsenal News.