Arsenal took a massive step toward the UEFA Champions League semi-finals with a dominant 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of their quarter-final tie. The Gunners turned in a commanding performance at the Emirates, leaving the Spanish giants shell-shocked and trailing ahead of the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Declan Rice was the standout performer, scoring two stunning free kicks in the 58th and 70th minutes to put Arsenal firmly in control. His precision and composure under pressure set the tone for a ruthless display by Mikel Arteta’s side.
Mikel Merino capped off the night with a third goal in the 75th minute, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the Madrid penalty area to seal the scoreline and send the home crowd into wild celebrations.
Real Madrid, who came into the match with their usual confidence on the European stage, were uncharacteristically flat throughout the 90 minutes. Arsenal’s aggressive pressing and quick transitions kept Madrid’s attacking stars quiet, while their back line handled any threats with ease.
To compound Madrid’s woes, midfielder Eduardo Camavinga was sent off after receiving a second yellow card in the 94th minute after a reckless challenge, reducing the Spanish side to ten men in the dying seconds of the game. The red card adds to the uphill battle facing Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the second leg.
With a three-goal cushion and Madrid missing a key midfield presence in the return leg, Arsenal now head to the Spanish capital as clear favorites to progress. However, the Bernabéu has seen many dramatic comebacks, and Arteta’s side will need to stay sharp to see this one through.
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