Declan Rice: The rare record Arsenal midfielder set with free-kick brace against Real Madrid

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice delivered a night to remember on Tuesday as he inspired the Gunners to a crucial 2-1 win over 15-time European champions Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final.

Under the bright lights of the Emirates, Rice produced a sensational performance, scoring twice from direct free-kicks to hand Mikel Arteta’s side a slim but vital advantage ahead of the return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on April 16.

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While Rice has been a standout performer for Arsenal since his arrival and a trusted figure in set-piece situations under specialist coach Nicolas Jover, he had never scored from a direct free-kick until now.

The 26-year-old England international shattered that statistic in style, bending in two sublime efforts that sent the Emirates into raptures.

Rice's heroics etched his name into Champions League history.

According to Opta, Rice is now the first player ever to score two direct free-kick goals in a single Champions League knockout stage match.

Speaking to Arsenal.com after the final whistle, a visibly elated Rice struggled to put the night into words.

“I’m speechless, this has never happened to me before! This is the quarter-final and we know how much this night meant. It's a real historic night for the club. I'm so happy," he said.

His first goal, a curling strike that dipped over the wall and nestled in the top corner, gave him the confidence to replicate the feat with another beautifully struck effort just minutes later, both goals leaving Real Madrid keeper Thibaut Courtois rooted.

With Arsenal now holding a narrow advantage, the stage is set for a blockbuster return fixture in Madrid.

Rice’s heroics have not only given the Gunners a psychological edge but also renewed belief that Arteta’s men can go toe-to-toe with Europe’s elite.

As the countdown to April 16 begins, Declan Rice’s name is now firmly etched into the annals of Champions League lore.