Declan Rice came to Arsenal with considerable expectations in 2023 from West Ham United. Since then, he has been one of Arsenal’s key and consistent players.
However, one can say that this mega mark started on Tuesday (9 April 2025) as the England international scored two (goals) free-kicks against Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals at the Emirates Stadium, leading Mikel Arteta’s side to win the first leg 3-0.
Rice’s first goal came in the 58th minute, thanks to a perfectly taken free-kick. Beating Thibaut Courtois once is a big achievement for any player. However, Rice then scored his second goal (second free-kick) in the 70th minute to take a 2-0 lead.
Mikel Merino took things forward, adding Arsenal’s third goal of the game in the 75th minute.
This means ahead of the second leg in Madrid next Wednesday, the Gunners have a 3-0 lead over the mega European side.
Rice’s contribution has made Arsenal’s chances of reaching the UCL semis easier. This tells that Arsenal could have a better chance to possibly win their first Champions League title.
After stealing the show in North London, Rice said on Amazon Prime: “I don’t know whether it will ever sink in.”
“I’ve gone back to my phone then and it’s gone crazy. To score my first free-kick in a game is a special one. And then when I got the second one… I just had the confidence. I’m speechless really.
“I don’t think it’s going to hit me, what I’ve done tonight. It’s a historic night.”
Arsenal’s chances of winning the Premier League might not be too sound this season, as Liverpool have an 11-point lead over them with just seven games left.
However, there are brighter chances now to become the European champions.
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