It really is the hope that kills you

2Defence

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Shkodran Mustafi of Arsenal looks at the UEFA Europa League Semi final match between Arsenal FC and Atletico Madrid at Emirates Stadium on April 26, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Richard Heathcote / Getty Images)
(Photo by Richard Heathcote / Getty Images)

David Ospina 6

Delivered a quite exceptional pass from his hands across half the length of the pitch, pulled off a few decent saves and generally did what you’d expect from a keeper.  That was the first half.

In the second half, with absolutely nothing to do until the 82nd minute, his attempt to face up to Griezmann was pathetic. Hesitant as he came out, he seemed unsure what to do and Griezmann was able to move the ball past him as Ospina summoned the Ghost of Almunia past.

Contrast this with Jan Oblak at the other end who single-handedly kept the Spaniards in this tie.

Hector Bellerin 7

Found plenty of space and was one of a number who seemed on a personal mission to do his best for Wenger, in this game at least. Was delivering crosses into the box all evening and was the only one of the defence not in any way culpable for Atletico’s goal.

Shkodran Mustafi 5

The biggest compliment I was going to give Mustafi was that he didn’t once draw attention to himself the whole evening. Exceptional, I wrote, before he fell over on the goal line in the most Arsenal of ways.

Laurent Koscielny 5

Superb display against Kevin Gameiro until he kicked the ball into his own face, allowing Atleti to change the face of the tie completely with only a few minutes remaining.

Absolutely no clue why he tried to slice his volley at the back post when he had the chance to score.

Nacho Monreal 6

Absolutely key to Arsenal’s opening goal. Chased the ball down on the edge of the Atletico box and was quick enough to close his legs with the defender tried to nutmeg him, allowing him to collect the ball and play in Jack who crossed to Lacazette.

Put in even more crosses than Bellerin (9 v 7) but played Griezmann onside with some criminal positional awareness.

Next, midfield, forwards, subs and notable mentions…