Quantcast
Home   >   Match   >   Player ratings: Arsenal 3-0 Real Madrid: Declan Rice stuns champions

Player ratings: Arsenal 3-0 Real Madrid: Declan Rice stuns champions

By on April 9, 2025

Arsenal delivered a stunning performance to defeat Real Madrid 3-0 in one of their most iconic wins at the Emirates Stadium.

The match began with an early error from Jakub Kiwior, allowing Kylian Mbappé to test the Arsenal defence. However, his strike flew over the bar.

Despite that scare, Arsenal settled quickly and began to dominate. They pushed Madrid back with sharp passing and clever movement across the pitch.

Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka combined well down the right, while Jurrien Timber’s cross almost found Declan Rice, whose header forced Courtois into action.

Gabriel Martinelli pounced on the rebound, but Courtois was equal to it again, producing another top-class save before the break.

Real Madrid threatened briefly but failed to break down Arsenal’s solid backline. David Raya stayed alert and saved comfortably when called upon.

Declan Rice stars as Gunners run riot

The second half saw Arsenal turn up the heat. They kept Madrid penned in, moving the ball with urgency and energy in the final third.

Saka won a free-kick just outside the box thirteen minutes into the half, and Rice stepped up with confidence to curl it past Courtois.

That goal sparked more pressure, and Real Madrid struggled to cope. Arsenal pressed high, winning the ball back quickly whenever they lost it.

Their effort paid off again when Saka was fouled once more. Rice fired in another stunning free-kick to double the lead.

The two free-kick goals made Declan Rice the first player to score two direct free kick goals in a knockout stage match in the UEFA Champions League.

Five minutes later, Myles Lewis-Skelly set up Mikel Merino, who took his chance with a lovely curling effort to seal the win.

The visitors offered no response. Arsenal looked sharper, hungrier and more organised from start to finish. Mikel Arteta was visibly proud of the team’s display.

Arsenal Player Ratings vs Real Madrid

David Raya – 7

Had a quiet night but dealt with Mbappé’s first-half effort. Claimed crosses well and stayed calm under pressure.

Jurrien Timber – 8

Locked down Vinicius Junior with ease. Supported attacks from the right and played a vital role in both halves.

William Saliba – 8

Strong and assured at the back. Had one nervy moment but recovered well to keep the defence organised.

Jakub Kiwior – 8

Recovered from an early slip to deliver a composed performance. Broke up play well and passed cleanly from the back.

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 9

An standout display. Provided an assist and kept Rodrygo quiet throughout. Looked confident and sharp all game.

Thomas Partey – 8

Dominated midfield. Broke up play, launched attacks, and nearly scored in the first half with a powerful strike.

Declan Rice – 10

Simply outstanding. Scored two beautiful free-kicks and won countless duels in midfield. A complete display in every sense.

Martin Ødegaard – 7

Showed good vision in attack. Lost the ball at times, but created several openings and linked play well when it mattered.

Bukayo Saka – 8

Gave Alaba a tough night. Won both free-kicks that led to goals and delivered dangerous crosses. Worked hard despite fitness concerns.

Mikel Merino – 7.5

Took his goal brilliantly. Missed earlier chances but made up for it with a composed finish to end Madrid’s hopes.

Gabriel Martinelli – 7

Had two shots saved by Courtois. Lively in patches but lacked his usual sharpness in front of goal.

Substitutes

Leandro Trossard – 5 (on 74′)

Maintained the pressure after coming on for Saka. Kept the width and chased the ball well.

Kieran Tierney – 5 (on 80′)

Helped see out the match and added fresh legs to protect the clean sheet.

Ben White – N/A