As Arsenal dominated Real Madrid, Declan Rice delivered the best moment of his career with two stunning free-kick goals en route to a 3-0 victory in the Champions League quarterfinal first leg over Los Blancos. The job is far from done, needing to still make it through the second leg, but with a three-goal advantage, Arsenal will feel good about their chances in the clash.

It’s hard not to feel good after Rice delivered one of the best all-around performances in an Arsenal kit, netting two goals while also contributing defensively to keep Real Madrid from scoring. The midfielder even mentioned he could’ve scored more as Courtois made saves to deny him, yet he still achieved his goals.

“I probably should’ve had two [goals] in the first half. I didn’t run, I could’ve had a tap-in and then the header. Obviously, I scored the two goals. I just went out there fearless, and I was ready to prove a point.” - Declan Rice

Following the match, Rice shared insights on his successful free kicks with Arsenal’s legend Thierry Henry. He explained how both successful strikes came from a mark of confidence and creative thinking, enhanced by his teammate Bukayo Saka’s encouragement.

Analyzing Rice’s First Free Kick

For the first free kick, Real Madrid formed a wall with only four players. Rice seized the opportunity, curling one in beautifully, aided by Saka’s suggestion to go for it.

“Before all this, our set piece coach wanted a cross to the far post, but I saw a gap and took the risk. That’s what makes it a historic moment for me.” - Declan Rice

Rice’s spectacular brace was a strategic triumph, signaling a significant moment in Arsenal’s campaign as they move one step closer to the semifinals.