Arsenal Secure Historic Victory Over Real Madrid as Declan Rice Shines
Arsenal advanced to the Champions League semi-finals in emphatic fashion, overcoming Real Madrid with a 3-0 win at home and a composed 2-1 triumph at the Bernabeu. Declan Rice set the tone at the Emirates with a spectacular brace from free kicks, while Mikel Merino added a third, putting the tie firmly in Arsenal’s control.
Despite pre-match predictions of a potential comeback from the Spanish giants, Arsenal handled the pressure with confidence in the second leg. Although Bukayo Saka missed a penalty, he made amends by scoring the opening goal. William Saliba’s slip allowed Vinicius Junior to pull one back, but Gabriel Martinelli secured the victory, sealing a 5-1 aggregate win for the Gunners.
Throughout both legs, Arsenal looked a class above, with Declan Rice embodying the gap in quality. The England international was named Man of the Match in both fixtures, capturing the attention of the Spanish media once again after his dominant display at the Bernabeu.
Spanish Press Full of Praise for Rice
El Mundo’s Miguel Herguedas reflected on Arsenal’s last away win against Madrid in 2006, stating Rice would have fit perfectly in that legendary team. He wrote:
“Arteta paid tribute to Wenger’s 2006 victory. Now, Declan Rice steps up as the spiritual successor, delivering a towering performance. He was the emblem of Arsenal’s strength and resolve.”
Alex de Llano of DAZN shared his admiration on social media, highlighting Rice’s influence over both legs:
“What a knockout performance. His recoveries disrupted Madrid, and he remained a constant attacking threat.”
Sport journalist German Bona echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Rice’s all-around display:
“In the 59th minute, Rice halted a dangerous Valverde counterattack—he’s everywhere. He should be the MVP.”
Rice’s Dominance Reflects in the Numbers
Statistically, Rice’s performance was exceptional. He completed 25 of his 26 passes, made five recoveries, five interceptions, along with two tackles and two blocks. His contribution in both defense and attack proved vital to Arsenal’s success.
Manager Mikel Arteta couldn’t hide his admiration, telling TNT Sports:
“He was immense. When the game was in the balance, he stepped up and changed it. He was the difference.”
Declan Rice’s commanding performances have now firmly established him as one of the elite midfielders in world football, earning widespread recognition not just in England, but across Spain as well.
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