Kylian Mbappe reaction to Declan Rice says it all as Arsenal man stuns Real Madrid | Football | Sport




Kylian Mbappe was lost for words after Declan Rice smashed two incredible free-kicks past Thibaut Courtois during Arsenal's big win over Real Madrid. The Gunners fired on all cylinders as they stunned the reigning European champions, ensuring they would take a healthy lead into next week's second leg at the Bernabeu.

Arsenal created plenty of chances in the first half without taking the lead as Real Madrid struggled to assert themselves in the contest. The breakthrough came in the second half, when Rice curled a brilliant free-kick around the wall and inside the far post. He doubled his tally from a similar position just 13 minutes later, finding the top corner with an even better strike.

Mbappe was visibly stunned as Rice wheeled away to celebrate after whipping the Emirates Stadium into a frenzy. He was left with no choice but to acknowledge his rival's brilliance and was seen flashing a knowing look into the distance, which told the whole story.

Rice's second goal was particularly impressive, with Courtois left clawing at thin air as the ball sailed right into the top corner.

Matthew Upson, who was commentating on the match for BBC Radio 5 Live, said: "Unbelievable. I don't think anyone expected that to happen. Why not? Because the first one was an absolute screamer and you think he can't beat that.

"This free-kick is absolutely superb. It has bend. It has power. Question marks over the wall from Real Madrid, but it is such a lovely free-kick hit right into the postage stamp. What a brilliant double free-kick special from Declan Rice."

Alan Shearer, in the Amazon Prime commentary box, added: "You thought the first one was impressive? Goodness me. The accuracy, the power, the bend and the control on it.

"Thibaut Courtois left a big gap because he thought he was going to go over the wall. It just sensational. Courtois is nowhere near it. It is absolutely incredible."

Things got even better for Arsenal a few minutes later, with Mikel Merino finding the bottom corner to spark utter pandemonium in the stands.

Seconds before the end of the match, Real Madrid were reduced to 10 men when Eduardo Camavinga needlessly kicked the ball out after the Gunners were awarded a free-kick in their own half.

Huge cheers greeted the final whistle in north London as Arsenal fans celebrated their incredible victory over the kings of Europe. It was their best Champions League night for many years and will undoubtedly live long in the memory of those lucky enough to be there.



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Posted: 2025-04-09 01:38:15

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