da pinup bet: Mikel Arteta says the referee used "common sense" in not awarding Bayern Munich a penalty when Gabriel handled the ball in their Champions League tie.
da pinnacle: Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Gabriel handled the ball in Arsenal boxBayern livid they didn't get a penaltyArteta says referee showed 'common sense'WHAT HAPPENED?
Gunners goalkeeper David Raya played a goal kick to Gabriel, who then handled the ball; seemingly unaware that play had started during the second half of a thrilling Champions League quarter-final first leg clash at the Emirates on Tuesday. Referee Glenn Nyberg did not penalise the centre-back despite the furious protestations of Bayern's players and manager Thomas Tuchel. Ahead of Arsenal's home clash against Aston Villa on Sunday, Arteta has applauded the official's decision-making.
AdvertisementGetty & TNT SportsWHAT MIKEL ARTETA SAID
He told reporters on Friday: "Yes, I did notice it, especially after when there was a certain reaction from them (Bayern players). I think the referees used the law. The law says to use common sense and whether you take an advantage from that situation, which there isn't an advantage."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
At that point in the match, Bayern were 2-1 up and a penalty could have put the tie beyond the reach of Arteta's men. However, Leandro Trossard scored shortly after that controversial incident and Arsenal head to Germany next week with all to play for, with the tie at 2-2. On such fine margins are games won and lost.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
Arsenal return to Premier League action on Sunday afternoon where they host former manager Unai Emery and his Champions-League chasing Villa side. On Wednesday, they then take on Bayern for the second leg of their last eight Champions League tie.