Contributor Arsenal delivered a commanding performance in the UEFA Champions League, overpowering 15-time champions Real Madrid with a resounding 3-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.
A masterclass in set-piece execution saw Declan Rice net a stunning brace from free-kicks, while substitute Mikel Merino sealed the emphatic win, giving the Gunners a commanding advantage ahead of the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The opening 45 minutes were a tightly contested affair, with both sides creating chances but failing to break the deadlock. Real Madrid started brightly, with Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé threatening Arsenal’s defence.
Goalkeeper David Raya stood firm, making crucial saves to deny the duo.
At the other end, Arsenal grew into the game, testing Thibaut Courtois with efforts from Thomas Partey, Rice, and Gabriel Martinelli.
The Belgian shot-stopper produced a spectacular double save late in the half to keep the scores level.
Despite the intensity, the first half ended goalless—though the match showed clear signs of an imminent breakthrough.
The Gunners emerged from the break with renewed intent, stifling Real Madrid’s attacking momentum while capitalising on their own opportunities.
The deadlock was broken when Bukayo Saka was fouled by David Alaba just outside the box. Rice stepped up and curled a sublime free-kick past Courtois, igniting the Emirates crowd.
Just minutes later, Arsenal won another free-kick in a nearly identical position. Rice once again took charge, this time firing a low drive that eluded Courtois to double the lead.
With Real Madrid reeling, substitute Mikel Merino compounded their misery, slotting home a third to put the tie firmly in Arsenal’s control.
In stoppage time, Eduardo Camavinga received a second yellow card, reducing Los Blancos to 10 men and capping off a dismal night for the Spanish giants.
Looking Ahead
Arsenal will take a commanding three-goal lead to Madrid for the second leg, but Carlo Ancelotti’s side—renowned for their European pedigree—will be desperate to mount a comeback.
For now, Mikel Arteta’s men have sent a resounding message to the continent with a performance of tactical discipline and clinical precision.
