Declan Rice Says Bukayo Saka’s Words Helped Him Score Two Stunning Free-Kicks Against Real Madrid

Declan Rice was the star of the night as Arsenal beat Real Madrid 3–0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.

He scored two amazing free-kicks—but he says it was teammate Bukayo Saka who gave him the advice that made the difference.

After the game, Rice shared that Saka told him to “feel the moment” just before he stepped up to take the first free-kick.

“I’ve tried free-kicks before, but they often hit the wall or go over the bar,” Rice told Amazon Prime Video.

“We were going to cross it at first, but I looked at the wall and the keeper and just thought, ‘Go for it.’ Then Bukayo said to just feel it—and that gave me the confidence.”

His second free-kick was just as powerful, and it sent the home fans into a frenzy.

“I’m so happy right now,” Declan Rice said. “One day, I’ll look back and realise how special tonight was.”

He also praised Saka for his support and quick return from injury. “He’s a great guy. To come back so fast is incredible.”

A Huge Win for Arsenal

Few people expected Arsenal to beat Real Madrid so comfortably. But now, with a 3–0 lead going into the second leg in Spain, they’re in a strong position to reach the semi-finals.

If they finish the job at the Santiago Bernabéu next week, they will face either Aston Villa or Paris Saint-Germain in the next round.

What’s Next?

Arsenal play Brentford in the Premier League this weekend, and Rice may get a rest after his big performance.

All eyes will now be on next week’s second leg in Madrid, where Arsenal hope to take another step toward their first Champions League title.