In a dominant performance against Real Madrid, Declan Rice marked a career highlight by scoring two incredible free-kick goals. These goals contributed to Arsenal`s impressive 3-0 victory in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal match against Real Madrid. While the second leg at Santiago Bernabeu remains, Arsenal is in a strong position with a three-goal lead.
Rice`s performance was outstanding, scoring twice and playing a key role in Arsenal`s solid defense that prevented Real Madrid from scoring. He admitted he could have scored even more, acknowledging excellent saves from Thibaut Courtois. Nevertheless, Rice was instrumental in securing the win.
“I probably should have scored twice in the first half,” Rice commented. “But I scored two goals. I played with confidence and wanted to prove my worth, and I believe we did as a team.”
After the game, Rice discussed his free-kick goals with Arsenal icon Thierry Henry, who is now a CBS Sports analyst. Rice revealed that his goals might not have happened if he had strictly followed the instructions of Arsenal`s set-piece coach.
Analyzing Rice`s First Free Kick
For the first free kick, Real Madrid`s defensive wall had only four players. Rice spotted an opportunity to curl the ball around the wall to the right side of the goal. He described his discussion with Bukayo Saka before taking the kick.
“Our set-piece coach planned for us to cross the ball to the far post,” Rice explained. “He wanted a reverse cross to the back post. But I told Bukayo, `Crossing it doesn`t feel right.` I looked at the wall and Courtois and saw space for a right-footed shot around the wall. Bukayo agreed, `If you feel it, take it.` So I decided to go for it. You have to take risks to score. As soon as I kicked it, I felt it had a chance, and it became a memorable moment.”
Rice`s ability to find his own solutions highlights his quality as a player. His transfer to Arsenal from West Ham United in 2023 was a game-changer for the club. This significant moment, defeating Real Madrid, brings Arsenal closer to the Champions League semifinals.
A Second Fantastic Free Kick
For his second free kick, Real Madrid adjusted their wall, but Rice still managed to score a perfect strike, extending Arsenal`s lead. He became the first player since Hakim Ziyech in 2023 to score two free-kick goals in a single Champions League match, potentially establishing himself as Arsenal`s primary free-kick taker.
“I think my ability to strike the ball and score goals is sometimes questioned. I know I`m capable of these moments; it`s about doing it more consistently,” Rice stated. “After the first goal, I felt confident with the second. As soon as it left my foot, I knew it was good.”
“When practicing free kicks, I`ve noticed that if I look up too quickly after contact, the strike isn`t as accurate. But when I focus on the ball and visualize the spot I want to hit, my consistency improves.”
Practice pays off, and even if this free-kick performance is a one-off for Rice, it will be a historic night if it helps Arsenal reach the Champions League semifinals.
Dominic Ashworth