Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has opened up about the technique and mindset behind his two incredible free-kick goals that led the Gunners to a dominant 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League first leg.
Rice played a key role in the historic win, netting two sensational set-piece goals, while Mikel Merino added a third to secure a comfortable lead for Mikel Arteta’s side.
What Declan Rice Said
Discussing his first goal, Rice described it as a perfectly placed effort, bending the ball smoothly around the defensive wall and past Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
Despite fans speculating that Arsenal’s set-piece coach, Nicolas Jover, had orchestrated the move—especially after he was seen gesturing a curling motion—Rice clarified that the plan was actually different.
“He’s trying to take credit, but he actually told me to cross the ball,” Rice joked. “I was wearing the jersey meant for a delivery, not a shot.”
The second free-kick was even more remarkable, as Rice struck the ball cleanly into the top corner, out of reach for Courtois.
“It looked far out—you wouldn’t even think of shooting from there,” he said. “Originally, Martin [Odegaard] and I were going to do a short touch, but Mbappe was standing too close. Then I thought, ‘This is my chance.’ I’ve practiced these a lot and had confidence after scoring the first. Even if it missed, it wouldn’t have mattered.”
A Night to Remember
Reflecting on the match, Rice expressed how surreal the moment felt.
“I don’t think it’s really hit me yet—scoring twice against Real Madrid on a night like this. It’s massive. We want to go all the way in this competition, but we’re staying focused and taking it game by game.”
He also credited encouragement from teammates and coaches over the years for pushing him to take more shots.
“Even when I was at West Ham, people told me to shoot more often. It’s all about the right mentality. I know I’ve got it in me—it’s just a confidence thing. I honestly don’t think I’ll sleep tonight. I’m buzzing.”