Arsenal humiliates Real Madrid : Declan Rice dominates the midfield

The Gunners deliver a masterclass against the reigning champions and take a commanding lead toward the semi-finals.

Photos : Arsenal/Real Madrid/DR

A struggling Real Madrid from the first minute

Reigning Champions League winners Real Madrid entered this quarter-final clash at the Emirates Stadium with the weight of expectations. After eliminating Manchester City and Atlético Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti’s men were once again favorites,despite their recent inconsistencies. Missing Aurélien Tchouaméni, who was suspended, the Merengues welcomed back their world-class goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after a period of uncertainty regarding his availability. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta had to adjust his lineup, replacing the injured Gabriel Magalhães with Jakub Kiwior alongside William Saliba in central defense. Unfortunately for Jalub Kiwior, his performance started off shaky. Just 40 seconds into the game, Kylian Mbappé nearly punished Arsenal after a defensive error, only for his shot to be saved by David Raya. The Polish defender struggled again at the 24th minute, allowing Kylian Mbappé another opportunity, though it was ruled offside. Later, at 31 minutes, Jude Bellingham played an excellent through ball, but Kylian Mbappé failed to curl his shot properly, making it an easy save for David Raya. Despite these moments of danger, Real Madrid lacked cohesion and failed to impose their usual rhythm. Their struggle to build up meaningful attacks became clear as Arsenal tightened their grip on the match.

Arsenal Controls the game but struggles to score

Photos : Arsenal/Real Madrid/DR

For much of the first half, Arsenal dominated possession and dictated play. However, converting chances proved challenging. Both Gabriel Martinelli, Mikel Merino, and Declan Rice attempted shots (14’, 38’, and 40’ minutes), but none found the back of the net. The closest they came was just before halftime when Declan Rice and Gabiel Martinelli tested Thibaut Courtois with a double attempt (45’ minute), forcing two spectacular saves from the Belgian goalkeeper. Despite a frustrating 0-0 score at the break, the home side looked poised to take control.

Declan Rice’s masterclass changes the game

Coming back from halftime, Arsenal increased their intensity. More aggressive in midfield and sharper in attack, the Gunners finally broke the deadlock. At 58 minutes, Declan Rice stunned the stadium with a world-class free kick, sending the ball into Thibaut Courtois’top corner (1-0). Madrid looked rattled, struggling to mount any response. Twelve minutes later, Declan Rice struck again. At 70 minutes, slightly further left from his first free-kick attempt, he unleashed another unstoppable shot, leaving Thibaut Courtois helpless (2-0). The goalkeeper had been Madrid’s saving grace throughout the match, notably with key stops against Gabriel Martinelli and Mikel Merino, aided by David Alaba’s clearance on the goal line (67’ minute). Real Madrid desperately tried to regain footing, but aside from Jude Bellingham’ defensive intervention (73’ minute), they remained ineffective. Their night went from bad to worse when Ethan Nwaneri sprinted down the wing at 75 minutes, crossing perfectly for Mikel Merino, who fired home the decisive third goal (3-0).

Arsenal’s Statement Win, Real Madrid’s Collapse

Photos : Arsenal/Real Madrid/DR

This dominant performance in solidifies Arsenal as genuine title contenders while putting Real Madrid in a precarious position ahead of the second leg at Santiago Bernabéu. The Merengues will also have to deal with the absence of Eduardo Camavinga who was sent off in stoppage time. Madrid must find answers before their home rematch, where only a miraculous comebackcan salvage their European hopes. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s emphatic victorycements their growing influence in Europe.