Arsenal player ratings vs Real Madrid: Declan Rice stuns as Myles Lewis-Skelly hits new heights | OneFootball

One foot in the Champions League semi-finals thanks to two stunning free kicks

Declan Rice scored twice as Arsenal stunned Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.

Midfielder Rice struck two stunning free-kicks in the second half and Mikel Merino added a third as the Gunners ran out 3-0 winners.

It was no more than Mikel Arteta’s side deserved and they now head to Madrid for the second leg next week with a commanding lead.

Simon Collings was at Emirates Stadium to see Arsenal in action...

David Raya 7

Did not have masses to do as Arsenal were on the front foot for much of the game. Solid on crosses, though, and made a smart stop from Kylian Mbappe in the first half.

Jurrien Timber 8

The Dutchman has been one of Arsenal’s best players this season and he was excellent tonight. Shut down Vinicius Junior.

William Saliba 8

No wonder Real Madrid are interested in the Frenchman. Oozed class and composure all night. Mbappe had to feed off scraps.

Jakub Kiwior 6

Picked to start in the absence of Gabriel and, after a shaky start, was fairly solid. Deserves to keep his place for the second leg.

Myles Lewis-Skelly 9

Quite simply a ridiculous performance from an 18-year-old playing on this stage. Looked completely at home, especially on the ball, and kept Rodrygo quiet, too. Setup Arsenal’s third goal.

Martin Odegaard 7

The quietest of Arsenal’s midfielders. Combined well with Saka at times and pressed Madrid’s defence relentlessly.

Thomas Partey 8

Continued a good season with an impressive showing at the base of midfield. Composed on the ball and helped Arsenal boss the game.

Declan Rice 9 | Star player

The hero of the night with two of the best free-kicks you will see. Could have had a hat-trick, but Jude Bellingham cleared his effort off the line.

Bukayo Saka 8

Made his first start since December and looked super sharp. Real Madrid’s left side could not handle him and he had David Alaba on toast.

Mikel Merino 8

Continues to shine as a makeshift striker, especially linking the play. Capped a great display with a lovely first-time finish.

Gabriel Martinelli 7

Form has picked up over the past few weeks and he was lively again. Had a great battle with Federico Valverde, especially in the first half.

Substitutions

Leandro Trossard (Saka 74’) 6

A solid cameo off the bench and was involved in the build-up to the third goal.

Kieran Tierney (Rice 80’) N/A

Ben White (Timber 90’) N/A

Subs not used: Neto, Setford, Zinchenko, Jorginho, Gower, Nwaneri, Butler-Oyedeji