Declan Rice Champions League performance stuns Real Madrid as Arsenal midfielder scores two free kicks in historic 3β0 quarter-final win.
Declan Rice Champions League headlines are dominating the football world after the Arsenal midfielder delivered a career-defining performance against Real Madrid. In the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Rice scored two stunning free kicks and, as a result, led Arsenal to a commanding 3β0 victory.
From the 58th minute, Rice took control of the match. His first goal curled around Madridβs wall and into the bottom corner, leaving Thibaut Courtois frozen. Just twelve minutes later, Rice struck againβthis time with a long-range rocket into the top cornerβcementing his status as one of the worldβs elite midfielders.
Daniel Sturridge Applauds Riceβs Rise
Liverpool legend Daniel Sturridge was quick to praise Declan Rice Champions League performance. Speaking on Amazon Prime Video, he called Rice βone of the best midfielders in the world.β Sturridge highlighted Riceβs technical skill and composure and, furthermore, emphasized that βhis name will now be in the conversation with the best midfielders in the world.β
Liverpool legend Daniel Sturridge was quick to praise Declan Rice Champions League performance. Speaking on Amazon Prime Video, he called Rice βone of the best midfielders in the world.β Sturridge highlighted Riceβs technical skill and composure. In addition to that, he emphasized that βhis name will now be in the conversation with the best midfielders in the world.β

Arsenalβs Dominance and Historic Feat
Riceβs double was complemented by a third goal from Mikel Merino in the 75th minute, sealing Arsenalβs win and leaving Real Madrid stunned. The result not only puts Arsenal in a strong position for the second leg at the Santiago BernabΓ©u, but also marks a milestoneβRice became the first player to score two direct free kicks in a Champions League knockout match.
As Arsenal fans celebrate the triumph, Riceβs performance has elevated him into the global elite. With his name now firmly established, the future looks bright for both the English star and his club. The second leg promises more drama as Rice and Arsenal continue their pursuit of Champions League glory.
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