In a remarkable turn of events, Declan Rice, after 338 games in his professional career, finally found the back of the net from a free-kick for the first time.
Following his 339, he managed to score two more.
Before Tuesday’s remarkable 3-0 victory for Arsenal against Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals at Emirates Stadium, he had executed just 12 free-kicks throughout his entire career.
As the Gunners maintained their lead in a tightly contested match, England midfielder Rice executed a stunning free-kick, curling the ball around the Madrid wall and beyond the reach of Thibaut Courtois, to give Arsenal the advantage after 58 minutes.
Just 12 minutes later, the 26-year-old took the stage once more, becoming the first player to score two free-kicks in a Champions League knockout match.
The stunning curling strike that found the top corner was so remarkable it left Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard and manager Mikel Arteta in disbelief, hands on their heads.
Roberto Carlos, a former defender for Real Madrid and the Brazilian national team, was spotted in the stands with a somber expression. He was known for his prowess in set pieces throughout his career.
“I’m not sure if it will ever truly register,” Rice remarked to Amazon Prime following the game.
“I returned to my phone, and it has become chaotic.” Scoring my first free kick in a game is a significant achievement. Upon receiving the second one, a newfound confidence surged within me. I find myself at a loss for words. It remains to be seen whether the gravity of tonight’s actions will resonate with me. Last night marked a significant moment in history.
The initial objective…
Arsenal has established a reputation for its effectiveness during set-pieces, with Rice contributing significantly. In the last two seasons, Rice recorded the joint second-highest number of dead-ball assists (eight) across all competitions.
However, converting direct free-kicks presents a unique challenge.
After the match, Arteta remarked that Arsenal had not found the back of the net since September 2021. However, according to Opta data, Bukayo Saka did score against Paris St-Germain in October 2024, converting a free-kick that curled in from the right touchline.
Following Martin Ødegaard’s memorable free-kick goal against Burnley in 2021, Arsenal has made 70 attempts at direct free-kicks across all competitions, with Ødegaard himself taking 30 of those shots.
In a post-match revelation, Rice disclosed that, despite the guidance from Arsenal’s set-piece coach Nicolas Jover to deliver a cross, he identified an opportunity around the wall for the first goal. He communicated his confidence to Saka regarding the decision.
The England winger stated, “If you feel it, go for it.”
Ride stated, “From that perspective, crossing the ball didn’t seem logical.” A delicate pass would be essential. The experience was enchanting, and I am grateful for having embraced it.
Jover’s celebration continued unabated, with Rice later commenting that the coach was “claiming it.”
Arteta stated, “He can claim it if he wants; it doesn’t matter.” It is truly remarkable.
While the opener reflected Arsenal’s deserved dominance, the most impressive moments were still ahead.
The former England striker Alan Shearer described the moment as “absolutely incredible,” while Clarence Seedorf, the ex-Real Madrid midfielder, remarked that “not even Superman would get it.”
Rice commented, “It appears quite distant.” Plans were in place for Martin and me to make contact and establish the situation, but Kylian Mbappe was positioned uncomfortably nearby.
“However, I considered my position as the keeper, and given my extensive practice, I decided to take the plunge.” If it had gone over the bar, it would have been inconsequential. The item has remained stored away, yet I have encountered obstacles repeatedly, or it has sailed over the target. “I feel a sense of anticipation.” A sense of happiness envelops me. I am thrilled. In the coming years, I will truly realize the significance of what I accomplished tonight.
Rice experienced a defining moment in his Arsenal career, yet Arteta and midfielder Mikel Merino, who netted the third goal, remained unfazed by the outcome.
“If there’s a player capable of achieving it, considering how cleanly he strikes the ball, it’s Declan,” Arteta remarked.
Executing at the highest level is crucial, especially when facing one of the world’s top goalkeepers. It is truly remarkable. His determination has been evident, as our discussions over the past few months have shown.
Merino remarked, “He possesses one of the finest shooting abilities I have encountered throughout my career.” It comes as no surprise to me. There is optimism for additional developments in the future.
Former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson shared his thoughts on BBC Radio 5 Live. He described the evening as “a night to remember” for Rice, who he believes “single-handedly made the difference.”
Remarkable events unfold at the Bernabeu.
The return leg at the Bernabeu is scheduled for 16 April, and there are numerous positive signs for Arsenal as they prepare for the match.
This victory marks the 12th occasion that an English team has secured a win by three or more goals in the first leg of a Champions League knockout match. All 11 previous winners have advanced in their respective journeys.
Real Madrid, known for their formidable presence at the Bernabeu, have a history of dramatic comebacks, as evidenced by their remarkable turnaround in 2022 when they overcame a 5-3 aggregate deficit against Manchester City in the match’s closing moments.
“It’s a significant evening for us as we aim to overcome Real Madrid in this competition,” Rice stated.
“Despite holding a 3-0 lead, the individual talent on their side remains a formidable concern.” Special events unfold at the Bernabeu for them.
“Our goal is to secure victory in this competition; however, we must approach it one game at a time.”
