“Wonim Rice”: Fans on Cloud Nine After Declan Rice Scores Two Freekicks vs Real Madrid

• Arsenal recorded an emphatic win against Real Madrid thanks to two stunning free-kick goals from Declan Rice
• Rice, who had not scored from a dead-ball situation up until the game vs Madrid, scored twice to give the Gunners a 3-0 win
• His overall performance won him praise across the board as fans hailed him for shining against the 'kings' of Europe

Declan Rice delivered a Champions League masterclass, producing two sublime free-kick goals to inspire Arsenal to a statement win over Real Madrid in the quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium.

On a night when attacking fluidity often met resistance, it was set-piece precision that finally unlocked the deadlock.

After enduring sustained pressure and missed chances, Mikel Arteta's men found their breakthrough via an area they’ve consistently maximised this season—dead-ball situations.

The moment arrived following a clumsy foul by David Alaba just outside the penalty area.

Declan Rice scores stunning free-kicks

With the stage set, Rice stepped up confidently, invoking shades of England legend David Beckham.

His technique was flawless: a clean strike that curled over the wall and dipped perfectly past a rooted Thibaut Courtois, igniting wild celebrations in North London.

What followed was even more jaw-dropping.

Just over ten minutes later, the 26-year-old midfielder repeated the feat—this time from a sharper angle and greater distance, as noted by Goal.

With minimal backlift and maximum control, Rice whipped the ball into the top corner, leaving Courtois clutching at air.

The Emirates erupted once more, fully aware they were witnessing something truly special.

Rice’s brace wasn't just a personal milestone; it was historic.

According to Opta Jean, he became the first player to score two goals from direct free-kicks in a single Champions League knockout stage encounter.

Fans react to Rice's delicious free-kicks

The football community quickly took to social media to salute the performance:

@Desmund_Oris wrote:

"Bro just created history."

@Cryptomonk2 praised Rice:

"Wow, bro so perfect."

@RUDY_FIASCO waxed lyrical about the Arsenal star:

"Rice is so nice."

@GarfieldUtd_ exclaimed:

"Wow. Wow, wow."

@Sling424 summed up:

"My lord, what am I watching? Declan, you absolute monster."

Declan Rice dominates against Madrid

Beyond the goals, Rice’s overall influence was telling.

His control in midfield, ability to break lines with progressive passes, and leadership in transitions played a major role in neutralising Madrid’s attacking rhythm.

Yet, it was his technical brilliance from dead-ball scenarios that ultimately tilted the tie in Arsenal’s favour.

An additional strike from Mikel Merino put the game beyond the reach of Madrid ahead of next Wednesday's return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Partey lauded for masterclass vs Real Madrid

Similarly, YEN.com.gh highlighted the glowing praise Thomas Partey received following his standout display against Real Madrid.

The Ghanaian midfield enforcer orchestrated play with finesse as Arsenal cruised to a commanding 3-0 victory over the Spanish giants.

Though he didn't register a goal, Partey's influence in the middle of the park was instrumental in the Gunners' emphatic triumph.

Source: YEN.com.gh