Declan Rice was the star of the night as Arsenal stunned Real Madrid 3-0 at the Emirates on Tuesday in their UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg, putting one foot firmly in the semi-final.
Rice struck twice with two thunderous free kicks in the 58th and 70th minutes, leaving Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois helpless on both occasions.
Mikel Merino then added a third in the 75th minute with a well-placed finish, completing a dream night for Mikel Arteta’s men.
It was a performance full of grit, flair, and confidence from the Gunners, who outplayed a lacklustre Madrid side in all areas of the pitch.
The visitors looked second-best for large parts of the game, struggling to cope with Arsenal’s high pressing and quick transitions.
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Arteta’s tactical setup proved to be the difference as Arsenal dominated midfield and stifled Madrid’s attacking threats.
The result gives Arsenal a commanding advantage ahead of the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu next week Wednesday.
With one foot already in the semi-finals, Arsenal fans will be dreaming of their first UCL semi-final appearance in over a decade.