Arsenal delivered a statement performance at the Emirates Stadium, securing a stunning 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. The result marks one of the club’s most memorable European nights in recent history.
After an evenly contested first half with chances for both sides, Declan Rice broke the deadlock in the 58th minute with a sensational free-kick, curling the ball around Madrid's wall and past the keeper. The England international wasn’t done yet—he doubled Arsenal’s lead just 12 minutes later with another exquisite free-kick, showcasing his set-piece mastery on the biggest stage.
Substitute striker Mikel Merino added the third goal in the 75th minute, slotting home from close range to cap off a dominant display and send the Emirates crowd into raptures.
More misery was piled on to Real Madrid as Camavinga was shown a second yellow for kicking the ball away, meaning he will miss the second leg.
Arsenal Take Commanding Lead into Second Leg at the Bernabeu
With a three-goal cushion, Mikel Arteta’s side will travel to the Santiago Bernabéu next Wednesday for the second leg, firmly in control of their Champions League destiny. The Gunners are now just 90 minutes away from reaching the semi-finals of Europe’s elite competition for the first time in over a decade.
This emphatic win over 14-time champions Real Madrid not only boosts Arsenal's confidence but also sends a clear message to the rest of Europe—they are serious contenders for the Champions League trophy.
