Champions League: Declan Rice's Free-Kicks Propel Arsenal to Dominant QF First Leg Victory Over Real Madrid
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Synopsis
In an electrifying Champions League quarter-final first leg match, Arsenal triumphed over Real Madrid 3-0, thanks to two stunning free-kicks from Declan Rice and a goal by Mikel Merino. The match showcased Arsenal’s dominance and set the stage for an exciting return leg.
Key Takeaways
- Declan Rice scored two incredible free-kicks.
- Mikel Merino added a third goal for Arsenal.
- Arsenal controlled the game early on.
- Outstanding performances from both goalkeepers.
- Next leg promises to be thrilling.
London, April 9 (NationPress) Two remarkable Declan Rice free-kicks, along with an impressive finish by Mikel Merino, propelled Arsenal to a commanding 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.
Arsenal asserted their dominance early in the match, coming close twice within a minute in the 13th minute. Declan Rice had one shot blocked by Raul Asencio, while Thibaut Courtois managed to parry Thomas Partey’s low attempt.
As the half progressed, the intensity heightened, requiring crucial saves from both keepers—David Raya thwarted Kylian Mbappé at close range, and Courtois made a stunning double save against a Rice header and a follow-up from Gabriel Martinelli, as reported by UEFA.
With both goalkeepers showcasing their skills, it appeared that only a moment of brilliance could break the stalemate at the start of the second half. Arsenal found that moment in the 58th minute when Rice unleashed a powerful free-kick that curled past Courtois into the net.
The pressure from Arsenal continued, leading to four blocked shots in quick succession. Rice was then given another chance from a free-kick in the 70th minute.
Riding the momentum from his first successful shot, Rice struck another exquisite free-kick into the far right corner, doubling Arsenal's advantage, before Mikel Merino added the third goal in the 75th minute, finishing from a pass by Myles Lewis-Skelly.
"I just had the confidence to hit it [the second free-kick]. It hasn’t fully sunk in yet, especially with the second leg to come, but I’m thrilled, absolutely delighted. In a few years, I believe I will look back at what I accomplished tonight as something truly special," Rice commented.
The visitors faced another challenge four minutes into stoppage time when Eduardo Camavinga received a second yellow card.
“We delivered a very complete and significant performance as a team. This evening also highlighted two other elements: the atmosphere we created even before the game, which I have never witnessed before, and the magical individual moments that can determine football matches. Declan’s first two goals encapsulate the essence of this night,” stated Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal coach.
