Arsenal’s hopes of winning the Champions League may well have been impacted heavily by the use of VAR in the clash between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.
The Gunners secured their place in the quarter-finals of the Champions League by overcoming PSV Eindhoven over two legs.
A 7-1 win in Eindhoven couldn’t be followed up with another victory as Arsenal were held to a 2-2 draw in the second leg – but it was enough to earn a commanding 9-3 victory.
With the North London outfit putting themselves into the final eight of the Champions League with relative ease, many looked towards their next challenge.
For Arsenal, one of Atletico Madrid or Real Madrid awaited, with the two local rivalries going head-to-head in another classic European night.
VAR impact on Arsenal’s Champions League hopes against Real Madrid
Since the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee system, there have been plenty of controversial moments.
One of those came in the game between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, with the two sides cancelling each other out over two legs.
Los Blancos took a 2-1 lead from their home win in the first leg but fell to a 1-0 defeat to the Rojiblancos in the reverse fixture after 90 minutes.
Extra time passed and in came penalties as both teams looked to earn a place in the quarter-finals as well as bragging rights over their city rivals.
Controversy struck as Julian Alvarez just about scored his spot kick after slipping, though a surprise VAR check followed.
It was determined that two different points of contact with the ball came from the former Manchester City man.
That meant the penalty was disallowed, eventually ending with Real Madrid winning the tie and earning a place in the final eight.
As sliding doors moments go, that could be as big as they get for Arsenal, one way or another for their Champions League hopes.
Real Madrid tie could go either way for Arsenal
On their day, Arsenal will feel as though they can beat anyone, not least a Real Madrid side that continues to just about squeeze through the Champions League.
On the one hand, it will be a difficult tie as Los Blancos are experienced at being able to drag their way through the competition.
Their quality in the forward areas could make any team crumble while their ability to hang in games makes them a tough team to crack.
The current holders are slightly more open than Atletico Madrid though, making it ideal for Arsenal’s inability to open low blocks.
If the Gunners can take something from the Emirates Stadium in the first leg, they will certainly fancy their chances of making the semi-final.