Arsenal took a large stride in direction of the Champions League semi-finals with a sensational 3-0 victory over Actual Madrid on the Emirates Stadium.
Declan Rice was the star of the present, scoring twice from two unbelievable free-kicks as Mikel Arteta’s aspect surprised the 15-time European champions.
Early on within the recreation, Kylian Mbappe examined David Raya with a few early efforts, whereas Thibaut Courtois was referred to as into motion to disclaim Thomas Partey and Rice on the different finish.
The breakthrough got here within the 58th minute. After Bukayo Saka was introduced down 30 yards from aim, Rice stepped up and bent an excellent free-kick across the wall and into the highest nook. It was his first ever direct free-kick aim in senior soccer and it despatched the Emirates into raptures.
Actual Madrid appeared rattled, and Arsenal wasted no time in doubling their benefit. Within the seventieth minute, Rice repeated the trick, this time curling a left-sided free-kick into the top-right nook, leaving Courtois scrambling as soon as extra.
The England midfielder, who has now contributed to targets in three consecutive Champions League appearances, was punishing Madrid at each flip.
Unforgettable night time. Unforgettable efficiency. pic.twitter.com/Y5ECiynjBe
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 8, 2025
Any hopes of a Madrid comeback have been extinguished 5 minutes later. Rice surged ahead once more, taking part in a key function within the build-up earlier than Myles Lewis-Skelly squared to Mikel Merino.
The midfielder turned striker, calm and composed, swept the ball into the underside nook for Arsenal’s third.
Actual Madrid had their possibilities however lacked the leading edge. Vinicius Junior. and Mbappe each had efforts saved or blocked, whereas Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo struggled to make an influence in opposition to a well-organised Arsenal defence.
Frustration boiled over for Madrid late on when Eduardo Camavinga obtained a second yellow card in stoppage time for kicking the ball away, compounding Los Blancos’ distress in North London.
Arsenal have been compelled into late modifications, with Saka and Rice each taken off as precautions after knocks, however the injury had already been performed. The Gunners not solely stored a clear sheet however produced one in every of their most full European performances in years.
