Two sensational free-kicks against Real Madrid have earned Declan Rice the UEFA Champions League Player of the Week award. 7m Livescore brings you the full story behind his historic night.
A European Night to Remember for Arsenal
When Arsenal thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals, one name dominated every headline: Declan Rice.
Not known as a set-piece specialist, Rice shocked the football world by scoring two world-class free-kick goals — both in the second half — to sink the Spanish giants at the Emirates Stadium.
According to Livescore, this was not only Rice’s first goal from a free-kick in his professional career — it was his first two, all in one historic night.
UEFA Recognition: History Made
For his match-winning brilliance, UEFA named Declan Rice the Player of the Week, marking the first time in his career he has won a major European individual award.
He also became:
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The first player in Champions League history to score two direct free-kicks in a single knockout match
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One of only a few players to score multiple goals in a UCL KO match, joining legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Rivaldo, and Ziyech
A milestone that elevates his legacy, and confirms Rice as one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.
Tactical Breakdown – Why Rice’s Brilliance Mattered
Positioning and Set-Piece Mastery
Arsenal didn’t just beat Madrid physically. They out-thought them. Arteta’s setup gave Rice the freedom to drift higher, occupy central zones usually manned by Ødegaard, and win set-pieces in dangerous areas.
The first goal was all about deception and precision — a curling strike over the wall and into the top corner.
The second? Power and timing, from over 25 yards, hit with perfect pace and dip.
Livescore’s heatmap analysis revealed Rice had more touches in attacking zones than any other Arsenal midfielder — a shift in tactical trust.
Defensive Control Remained
Despite the attacking heroics, Rice also led the match in:
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Interceptions (4)
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Ground duels won (8/10)
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Recoveries (11)
This wasn’t just flair. It was full-spectrum midfield dominance.
Context Is Everything: Why This Was Historic
Declan Rice became:
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The first player in UCL history to score 2 direct free-kicks in a knockout match
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The first Arsenal midfielder to score twice in a European KO game since Aaron Ramsey in 2014
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One of only 5 players to score a brace against Real Madrid in a UCL quarterfinal
He joined elite company — Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Rivaldo — not just for scoring, but for owning the moment.
“He took that match by the throat,” said ex-captain Patrick Vieira on Livescore. “And made it his.”
What It Means for Arsenal’s European Hopes
The 3-0 advantage gives Arsenal breathing room heading into the Bernabéu return leg. But more importantly, it solidifies belief — not just in reaching the semifinals, but in winning the entire thing.
Arteta now has:
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A midfield leader scoring goals
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A defense marshalled by Saliba and Timber
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A squad clicking at the right time
And with livescore soccer documenting every step, fans around the world are watching a contender emerge — not just for the match, but the whole tournament.
Rice’s Evolution: From East London to European Elite
At West Ham, Rice was beloved. But many doubted whether he could step up to elite continental football.
That doubt has vanished.
With 7 goals this season, 4 in the last 3 UCL home games, and match-winning performances in the league and Europe, Rice is showing he’s not just adapting — he’s redefining the midfield role.
“I used to watch legends in this tournament,” Rice said. “Now I’m trying to write my own chapter.”
He’s no longer the apprentice. He’s the story.
Why This Matters Beyond Arsenal
Declan Rice’s rise signals something deeper — a shift in how we evaluate midfield greatness.
Not just through tackles or passes. But through moments.
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Gerrard had Olympiacos.
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Lampard had Bayern.
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Now Rice has Madrid.
Football is remembered not for consistency alone — but for magic, when it matters most.
And that magic is being replayed, frame by frame, across Livescore’s global platform.
FAQ – Everything You Want to Know About Rice’s UCL Brilliance
❓ What award did Declan Rice just win?
He was named UEFA Champions League Player of the Week after Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Real Madrid.
❓ Is this the first time Rice has scored a free-kick?
Yes — incredibly, both goals were his first and second free-kick goals ever.
❓ How does this affect his season stats?
Rice now has 7 goals this season, matching his career-high.
❓ Who else made UEFA’s Team of the Week?
Teammates Saliba and Timber were also included alongside Rice.
❓ Where can I follow live Arsenal and UCL updates?
All updates, goals, ratings, and analysis are available on Livescore in real time.
The Legacy Begins Now
Football is built on nights like these.
For a club chasing its first European crown, and a player carving out a new identity, Declan Rice’s performance wasn’t just iconic — it was foundational.
He’s no longer just a £100M transfer. He’s no longer just a defensive midfielder.
He’s Arsenal’s leader in Europe.
And with Livescore tracking his rise — this story is only just beginning.