Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta could hardly contain his amazement after Declan Rice delivered a performance for the ages, scoring two breathtaking free-kicks in a Champions League clash against Real Madrid. The Gunners’ emphatic victory marked the end of a drought that had plagued the team for over three years, with Arteta noting, “We haven’t scored a free-kick since September 2021—tonight, we got two in 12 minutes!”
Rice, who had never scored a direct free-kick in his professional career prior to this match, stepped up with confidence and precision, leaving the Emirates Stadium crowd stunned. His first strike curled exquisitely into the top corner, beyond the reach of Real Madrid’s goalkeeper, while the second, just minutes later, rifled into the net with unstoppable power. The brace not only secured a vital win for Arsenal but also etched Rice’s name into club folklore.
Arteta, speaking post-match, marveled at the improbability of the moment. “It’s been a long time coming. Declan’s been determined to take those opportunities, and what he’s done tonight is incredible. The quality, the magnitude of those goals—from a player who’s never done it before—what are the odds?” The Spaniard also credited the electric atmosphere at the Emirates, suggesting the crowd’s energy played a role in inspiring the team’s heroics.
The drought-breaking performance comes as a significant milestone for Arsenal, who last celebrated a direct free-kick goal in September 2021. Since then, set-piece struggles had become a lingering frustration for fans and players alike. Rice’s sudden emergence as a dead-ball specialist has now flipped that narrative, sparking hope that this could signal a new era of potency from set plays.
For Rice, the moment was the culmination of persistence. Arteta revealed that the midfielder had been eager to take on free-kick duties, a responsibility he’d been denied until this unforgettable night. “He’s been dying to take one,” Arteta said with a smile. “Tonight, he showed everyone what he’s capable of.”