After a stunning display against Real Madrid, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has been named the UEFA Champions League Player of the Week. His historic free-kick brace powered the Gunners to a 3-0 victory, leaving fans and pundits in awe. Livescore dives into a performance that may define his European legacy.
Declan Rice Stuns Europe in Arsenal’s Historic Night
Big players rise on big occasions—and Rice rose highest.
Two Free Kicks, One Record
In a quarter-final clash that will be etched in Arsenal history, Declan Rice became the first player in Champions League history to score two direct free kicks in a knockout match. Both goals were exquisite, both unstoppable, and both came in a second half where Rice took full control.
Even more astonishing, these were his first career goals from free kicks. To score not one, but two—in a single knockout match against a European giant—has elevated his status from reliable midfielder to continental game-changer.
Breaking Records and Joining Legends
From West Ham hero to Arsenal legend in the making.
Rice Enters Elite Company
Rice now joins an exclusive list of players—Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Rivaldo, and Hakim Ziyech—who have scored multiple goals in a single Champions League knockout game. What makes his feat unique is the manner: both from dead-ball situations, against one of the world’s top goalkeepers, Thibaut Courtois.
Livescore confirms this is a first in UEFA Champions League knockout round history—solidifying Rice’s place among Europe’s elite midfielders.
Dissecting the Goals: Power, Precision, Perfection
Free kicks like these don’t happen by accident—they happen when confidence meets execution.
The First Strike – Pure Technique
Early in the second half, Rice stepped up for a free kick on the edge of the box. With composure beyond his years, he curled the ball over the wall and into the top corner. Courtois didn’t even move—a testament to the placement and whip on the shot.
The Second – Even More Spectacular
Minutes later, from a deeper position, Rice unleashed another. This time, it was all about power and dip, the ball knuckling viciously before smashing into the top right. The Emirates erupted. Even Rice looked in disbelief.
“I’ve watched them back about 20 times,” he admitted post-match. “Tonight, I might watch them another 20.”
Champions League Player of the Week: A First for Rice
Rice’s breakout European night is now officially recognized.
UEFA Honors Arsenal’s Midfield General
UEFA named Declan Rice their Player of the Week, marking his first major individual European honor. It’s a long-overdue acknowledgment for a player who’s been the heartbeat of Arsenal all season.
But the accolades didn’t stop there. Rice was also included in the UEFA Team of the Week, joined by teammates William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, both of whom helped lock down Real Madrid’s attack.
From Quiet Leader to Global Superstar
Rice’s leadership goes beyond stats—and it’s paying off in silverware and spotlight.
Four Goals in Three Home Games
Declan Rice now has four goals in Arsenal’s last three home Champions League matches, bringing his season tally to seven—equaling his personal best in all competitions.
His evolution from a defensive anchor to an all-action leader has been key to Arsenal’s rise both domestically and in Europe.
“I’m not used to this kind of praise,” Rice said, blushing in front of reporters. “But I’ll take it!”
Arsenal’s European Dream: Is It Finally Happening?
With Rice in this form, anything is possible.
Commanding First-Leg Advantage
Arsenal’s 3-0 win at the Emirates puts them in a dominant position heading into the second leg at the Bernabeu. A place in the Champions League semi-finals is now within reach for the first time since the 2008–09 season.
If they get there, Declan Rice will undoubtedly be a driving force.
Livescore Covers Arsenal’s Road to Glory
From match previews to live updates, Livescore is your companion throughout Arsenal’s Champions League run. Follow team news, player stats, and UEFA reactions in real-time.
❓ FAQ – Declan Rice & Arsenal’s UCL Triumph Explained
1. Is this Declan Rice’s first UEFA individual award?
Yes. He was just named UEFA Champions League Player of the Week for the first time in his career.
2. Has anyone else scored two free kicks in a UCL knockout game?
No. Rice is the first player in history to achieve that feat in the knockout stages of the Champions League.
3. How many goals does Rice have this season?
After his brace vs Real Madrid, Rice has now scored 7 goals this season—his highest-ever tally in one campaign.
4. Will Arsenal face Real Madrid again in the second leg?
Yes. The second leg will be played at the Bernabeu, with Arsenal holding a 3-0 advantage.
5. Does Livescore cover Champions League live?
Absolutely! Livescore offers live stats, in-play updates, team lineups, and highlight videos for every Champions League match.
❤️ Conclusion: A Night Declan Rice—and Arsenal—Will Never Forget
Declan Rice’s performance against Real Madrid wasn’t just a breakout moment—it was a statement. A statement to his doubters. A statement to the footballing world. A statement that Arsenal are back—and they mean business.
For a player often labeled as a defensive workhorse, this was something else entirely. It was art. It was history. And most of all—it was Declan Rice, reinvented under the European lights.
As Arsenal fans dare to dream, Livescore soccer will be here every step of the way—from goal alerts to glory.