Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice scored his first two career direct free-kick goals, leading Mikel Arteta’s side to a stunning victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final.
Declan Rice delivered a masterclass in set-piece brilliance during Arsenal’s 3-0 Champions League quarter-final victory over Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium. The England international scored two sensational free-kicks, leaving fans and pundits in awe. However, Rice later revealed that his first goal came after he decided to ignore specific instructions from Arsenal’s set-piece coach, Nicolas Jover.
Rice’s first free-kick, a beautifully curled effort around the Real Madrid wall, was a moment of sheer magic. Speaking to the media after the match, Rice disclosed that Jover had advised him to cross the ball to the back post instead of taking a direct shot. “He’s claiming it, but he told me to cross it!” Rice joked, reflecting on the moment. Trusting his instincts, Rice opted to go for goal, and the result was a strike that left Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois rooted to the spot.
The second free-kick was equally breathtaking, as Rice found the top corner with pinpoint accuracy. This feat made him the first player in Champions League history to score two free-kicks in a single knockout game. Rice credited his confidence from the first goal for inspiring him to attempt the second, stating, “I practice this so much. I had the confidence from the first one.”
Jover, known for his meticulous approach to set-pieces, has been instrumental in Arsenal’s success this season. While his initial instructions may not have been followed to the letter, Rice’s decision to trust his instincts paid off spectacularly, showcasing the player’s growing maturity and self-belief.
Arsenal’s emphatic win over the reigning European champions has put them in a commanding position ahead of the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. With Rice in such scintillating form, the Gunners’ dream of European glory seems closer than ever.
This performance not only highlighted Rice’s technical prowess but also underscored the importance of adaptability and intuition in football. Sometimes, going off-script can lead to moments of magic that define careers and captivate fans worldwide.
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