In a stunning display of skill and determination, Arsenal triumphed over Real Madrid with a commanding 3-0 victory in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final at the Emirates Stadium on April 8, 2025. Declan Rice emerged as the star of the match, scoring two remarkable direct free kicks, marking a historic achievement in Champions League knockout history.
As the match unfolded, it became clear that Arsenal was in no mood to be outdone. The Gunners dominated possession early on, with a fervent home crowd cheering them on. However, the first half ended without any goals, as both teams struggled to break the deadlock. The tension was palpable in the stadium, with fans eagerly anticipating a breakthrough.
Then came the moment of magic in the second half. Declan Rice, who had never scored a direct free kick in his professional career before this match, stepped up to take his first free kick in the 58th minute. With precision and power, he curled the ball around the wall, leaving Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with no chance. "When you score a goal, it’s the best feeling in the world," Rice expressed after the match. "I’m really speechless. I had confidence from the first shot, and I’m just happy I attempted it because it was magical.”
Just 12 minutes later, Rice struck again, this time from a more challenging position. His second free kick was even more spectacular, soaring into the top corner of the net. This achievement made Rice the first player ever to score two direct free kicks in a single Champions League knockout match, joining a prestigious club of players who have accomplished similar feats in the tournament's history.
William Saliba, who played a crucial role in Arsenal's defense, praised Rice's performance. "Since I’ve been at Arsenal, I’ve never seen a free kick scored like that. He took responsibility and delivered two fantastic goals. It’s magnificent, and I think it will give him a lot of confidence moving forward," Saliba stated.
Adding to the Gunners' lead, Mikel Merino scored Arsenal's third goal in the 70th minute, assisted by Lewis-Skelly, sealing a remarkable night for the home side. Merino's strike came after a well-coordinated attack that left the Real Madrid defense scrambling.
Real Madrid, despite their struggles, will take solace in their history of comebacks. Kylian Mbappé, who remains hopeful for a turnaround in the second leg, stated, "Of course, we can do it. We have to believe until the end." His confidence reflects a sentiment echoed by many in the football world, as three teams have previously qualified after losing by three goals in away matches in Champions League history.
However, the match was not without its controversies. Eduardo Camavinga received a red card late in the game for a second yellow, which means he will be suspended for the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. Courtois, reflecting on the match, admitted, "I take responsibility for the first goal, but the second was fantastic. It’s hard to concede goals like that, but we have to stay confident for the next match. We know we can turn this around at home, even if it will be tough.”
Arsenal's victory not only boosts their confidence but also solidifies their position in European football. With this win, England is guaranteed a fifth spot in the Champions League next season, thanks to the Gunners’ impressive performance.
Historically, Arsenal's last appearance in the Champions League final was back in 2006, where they faced Barcelona. Fans are now dreaming of a repeat of that magical run, especially after the team’s recent resurgence in form and their current unbeaten streak in the Champions League, which now stands at seven matches.
As the teams prepare for the second leg, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Arsenal fans are hopeful that their team can build on this momentum, while Real Madrid's rich history in the tournament suggests that they will not go down without a fight. The football world will be watching closely as these two giants of the game clash once again, with everything to play for.
In conclusion, the first leg of this quarter-final has set the stage for an electrifying return match. Arsenal's performance at the Emirates was a testament to their capabilities, while Real Madrid will be looking to harness their experience and history to mount a comeback. As the Gunners savor their victory, the focus now shifts to the Santiago Bernabéu, where dreams of glory and redemption will be on the line.
