Kasper Hjulmand slams controversial Arsenal penalty in UCL draw

Bayer Leverkusen boss Kasper Hjulmand criticized the late penalty decision that allowed Arsenal to secure a 1-1 draw, insisting the pressure now shifts entirely to Mikel Arteta’s side for the return leg.

Bayer Leverkusen head coach Kasper Hjulmand expressed fury over the 89th-minute penalty that denied his side a first-leg victory.

Noni Madueke went down following minimal contact from Malik Tillman, allowing Kai Havertz to equalize. “I don’t see a penalty there, but that’s how it is,” Hjulmand stated.

Despite the setback, he believes the draw places a significant psychological burden on the Gunners.

Mikel Arteta admitted relief after the late drama, acknowledging his team’s sluggish start to the second half.

While Hjulmand praised Robert Andrich’s leadership, Arteta highlighted the irony of Havertz scoring against his former employers.

“Football is a funny game. He came back to his old club and scored,” Arteta remarked. Both sides now turn their focus to domestic fixtures before next Tuesday’s decider.