Danny Makkelie Appointed for High-Stakes Champions League Semi-Final at the Metropolitano

Dutch referee Danny Makkelie has been appointed for the Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal Champions League semi-final first leg at the Metropolitano.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 27, 2026, 9:39 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from YSScores

Dutch Experience for the Semi-Final Opener

UEFA has confirmed that Dutch official Danny Makkelie will lead the refereeing team for Wednesday’s massive encounter at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. The choice underscores the governing body's preference for veteran stability in the tournament’s penultimate stage. Makkelie, a fixture in elite European football, will be joined by his compatriot Pol van Boekel in the VAR booth. This appointment marks Makkelie’s eighth assignment of the 2025/2026 Champions League campaign, emphasizing his status as one of the most trusted whistles in the competition.

A First for Atlético This Season

Despite his frequent appearances in Europe this year, Wednesday will be the first time Makkelie has crossed paths with Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid in the current tournament. However, he is no stranger to the Spanish capital. Makkelie has officiated seven previous matches for Atlético across European competitions, with the "Colchoneros" maintaining a respectable record of three wins, three draws, and a single defeat under his watch. Their only loss with Makkelie in charge came during a 2-0 group-stage defeat to Liverpool at Anfield in the 2021/2022 season.

Familiar Face for Mikel Arteta’s Gunners

Arsenal will enter the Metropolitano with relatively recent memories of the Dutch official. Makkelie was in charge of the Gunners' 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium during this season’s Round of 16. Historically, Arsenal has thrived under his officiating, securing three wins and suffering just one defeat in four European matches. The London side’s disciplined approach this season will be tested against Atlético's legendary physical resilience, all under the watchful eye of an official known for allowing play to flow while maintaining strict control over tactical fouls.