Arsenal delivered a commanding performance at the Emirates Stadium, securing a 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final.
This result places the Gunners in a strong position as they prepare for the return fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Midfielder Declan Rice emerged as the standout player, scoring two remarkable free-kicks. His first goal came in the 58th minute, followed by another in the 70th minute, both showcasing exceptional precision and power.
Just five minutes after Rice’s second goal, Mikel Merino extended Arsenal’s lead with a well-placed shot from inside the area, sealing the 3-0 scoreline.
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, implemented a strategy that effectively neutralized Real Madrid’s attacking threats. The defensive pairing of Jakub Kiwior and William Saliba provided stability at the back, while the midfield’s high pressing disrupted Madrid’s build-up play.
Despite fielding a star-studded lineup, including Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid struggled to penetrate Arsenal’s organized defense. The team’s frustration was compounded by Eduardo Camavinga’s late red card, ruling him out of the second leg.
With this substantial advantage, Arsenal approaches the second leg with confidence. However, Real Madrid’s history of comebacks in European competitions suggests that the tie is far from decided. The return match at the Bernabéu promises to be a compelling encounter as both teams vie for a spot in the semi-finals.
