Arsenal took a giant step toward the UEFA Champions League semi-finals with a dominant 3-0 win over Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium. Declan Rice scored two sensational free-kicks and Mikel Merino added a clinical third as the Gunners stunned the 15-time European champions in the first leg of their quarter-final clash.
The performance, filled with intensity, flair, and ruthless finishing, was one of the most memorable European nights in Arsenal’s history. In front of a raucous home crowd, Mikel Arteta’s side outplayed and outpaced a Real Madrid side that looked overwhelmed for most of the second half.
Declan Rice Delivers a Free-Kick Masterclass
The night belonged to Declan Rice, who scored the first two free-kicks of his professional career in spectacular fashion. The first came just before the hour mark after Bukayo Saka won a foul just outside the penalty area. From 25 yards, Rice curled a right-footed strike around the wall and into the bottom corner, leaving Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois rooted to the spot.
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It was a moment of pure class from a player known more for his defensive qualities. Remarkably, it was Rice’s first ever free-kick goal in 338 career appearances.
Twelve minutes later, he repeated the feat. From a similar position, Rice stepped up once again and curled another pinpoint strike past Courtois. The Belgian goalkeeper could do little to stop the power and accuracy of the shot, and the Emirates erupted once more.
GOAL | Arsenal 2-0 Real Madrid | Declan Rice
DECLAN RICE SCORES ANOTHER INSANE FREE KICK !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!pic.twitter.com/83aoV4EcUr
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For a player often criticized for not scoring enough, this was the perfect response. Rice not only dictated play in midfield but delivered two of the finest goals of the Champions League season.
Mikel Merino Caps Off a Perfect Night
As if Rice’s double wasn’t enough, Arsenal added a third goal in the 75th minute to put the tie firmly in their grasp. After sustained pressure, Mikel Merino received the ball at the edge of the box and bent a low shot into the bottom corner past the outstretched hand of Courtois.
The goal was a reward for Arsenal’s aggressive and confident approach. They had already come close several times earlier in the match, with Courtois making saves from Rice, Martinelli, and Thomas Partey.
Real Madrid were left stunned and struggling to cope with Arsenal’s energy and precision. The third goal all but sealed the win on the night and gives Arsenal a huge advantage heading into the second leg.
Arsenal Dominate from Start to Finish
Even before the goals came, Arsenal looked like the better side. The first half saw the Gunners control possession and create several half-chances, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli looking sharp on the flanks. Saka repeatedly beat David Alaba and sent in dangerous crosses, while Martinelli’s pace caused constant problems for the Madrid defense.
Thomas Partey also came close in the opening half with a powerful drive that was saved by Courtois. Declan Rice had a header stopped by the Madrid keeper, and Martinelli’s rebound was blocked.
It was clear that Arsenal were growing in confidence, and once the first goal went in, they never looked back. The Emirates crowd played their part too, creating a thunderous atmosphere that seemed to overwhelm the visitors.
Real Madrid Left Searching for Answers
For all their history in the Champions League, Real Madrid were second best on the night. Jude Bellingham, usually a standout performer, was left frustrated and isolated. After Rice’s second goal, the England star stood with his hands on his hips, staring at the big screen in disbelief.
Kylian Mbappe had one opportunity after being played through by Bellingham, but his shot was well saved by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. Vinicius Junior also had a half-chance in the first half but curled his effort wide.
Other than that, Real offered little. Their midfield was overrun, their defense disorganized, and their attack ineffective. Courtois was by far their busiest and best player, which says everything about how the night unfolded.
Camavinga Sees Red in Added Time
To make matters worse for Madrid, Eduardo Camavinga was sent off in stoppage time after picking up a second yellow card. His dismissal means he will miss the second leg, further complicating matters for manager Carlo Ancelotti.
The red card summed up Madrid’s frustration and added insult to injury on a night where little went right for the Spanish giants.
Arsenal Take Huge Step Toward Semi-Finals
With this victory, Arsenal now head to the Santiago Bernabeu with a commanding three-goal lead. Mikel Arteta’s men have one foot in the Champions League semi-finals, though they will be wary of Real Madrid’s history of comebacks on home soil.
Still, this performance was a statement. Arsenal didn’t just beat Madrid—they dismantled them with style and confidence. Declan Rice’s stunning free-kick brace and a complete team performance delivered one of the greatest European nights in the club’s modern history.
As the final whistle blew, Arsenal fans stayed to cheer every player, savoring a night that will live long in the memory. For now, they dream of the next stage—but they know the job is not quite finished yet.
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