Declan Rice’s two brilliant free kicks, the first scored in his career, helped Arsenal take a commanding 3-0 first-leg lead in their Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. Mikel Merino added a third goal to seal the win, which left Madrid stunned.
Rice’s first free kick, scored in the 58th minute, curled around the Real Madrid wall into the corner of the net past Thibaut Courtois. He scored his second of the night 12 minutes later with a free kick of equal quality, bending another long-range effort into the top right-hand corner.
Merino then made sure it was a memorable night for Arsenal when he curled a shot into the bottom corner from inside the area just five minutes later. Things only got worse for Madrid when Eduardo Camavinga was sent off in stoppage time for picking up a second yellow card.
“We need something special,” said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, reflecting on the challenge ahead. Arsenal have not reached the semi-finals stage of the Champions League since the 2008-09 season, but they have given themselves a huge chance of progressing to the last four with this result.
Key Moments
- Declan Rice’s double: Rice’s two free kicks, scored in the 58th and 70th minutes, left Madrid stunned.
- Mikel Merino’s goal: Merino added a third goal to seal the win, curling a shot into the bottom corner from inside the area.
- Eduardo Camavinga’s red card: Camavinga was sent off in stoppage time for picking up a second yellow card, making it even harder for Madrid to turn the tie around.
Player Ratings
- Declan Rice (Arsenal): 9.42/10
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal): 8.64/10
- Mikel Merino (Arsenal): 8.39/10
What’s Next
Arsenal will look to maintain their lead in the return leg, while Madrid will need to score four goals at the Bernabeu to turn the tie around. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with a spot in the semi-finals on the line.