Rio Ferdinand reacts to penalty incident in Arsenal vs Bayern Munich following Manuel Neuer’s foul on Bukayo Saka

Arsenal came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich in the first-leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie at Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night, but they could have won had they not been denied a last-minute penalty.

Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer appeared to foul Arsenal star Bukayo Saka in the closing stages of the game after his stretched leg impeded the England international and brought him down, but the referee waved play on and ended the game shortly afterwards.

The Gunners stars could not believe the decision, with Saka and manager Mikel Arteta fuming after the end of the game. Rio Ferdinand also was far from happy with the call, insisting Arsenal should have been awarded a spot kick.

“How’s that not been given?,” the former Manchester United defender said on TNT Sports.

“I can’t believe that’s not been given! That is a penalty, I’m in disbelief with my hand on top of my head.”

Arsenal put themselves ahead 12 minutes into the game through Saka but were pegged back following a defensive mistake which allowed Serge Gnabry to help draw Bayern level.

William Saliba committed a foul in the box shortly afterwards and Harry Kane put the visitors ahead from the spot to give his side a 2-1 lead heading into half-time.

Leandro Trossard drew Arsenal level in the 76th minute following a brilliant play from fellow substitute Gabriel Jesus, and the hosts thought they were going to get a chance to win the game at the death after Saka was brought down.

However, the ref was not convinced while VAR refused to intervene, and the North Londoners will have to put in a better performance in the return leg at Allianz Arena next Wednesday to progress to the semi-finals.