Arsenal dazzled in a historic 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in their Champions League quarter-final first leg. Declan Rice scored two stunning free-kicks, and Mikel Merino sealed the win. Mikel Arteta’s side now stands one step away from the semifinals, leaving Los Blancos with a mountain to climb.
Arsenal produced a night to remember at the Emirates Stadium, overpowering reigning champions Real Madrid 3-0 in their Champions League quarter-final first leg. In one of their most dominant European performances, Mikel Arteta's side took a giant leap toward the semifinals.
Declan Rice stole the spotlight, curling in two breathtaking free-kicks that left Thibaut Courtois rooted. Mikel Merino added a third to cap off a flawless evening for the North Londoners. Arsenal had early chances, with Bukayo Saka almost forcing an own goal, while VAR drama over a possible handball was waved off.
Despite glimpses of danger from Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid failed to break through a disciplined Arsenal defense. With the second leg looming, Los Blancos face a monumental challenge to overturn the deficit.
