Arsenal player ratings vs Real Madrid in the Champions League | OneFootball

Arsenal have taken a major step toward the Champions League semi-finals after a brilliant 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the first leg of the quarter-finals. Two incredible free-kick goals from Declan Rice put Arsenal in front before Mikel Merino made it 3-0 at the Emirates for the home side. Even though Real Madrid looked decent in the first half, they were pretty poor in the second. The visitors will have a lot to do at the Santiago Bernabéu in the second leg if they are to turn the tie around.

The home side started well, with a few shots on target in the early minutes. However, Real Madrid soon got the hang of the game and attempted to threaten the backline. But the closest they came was a Kylian Mbappé shot, which was easily saved by David Raya.

As the game progressed, Arsenal looked stronger. Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka combined well, with the winger putting in some great crosses. Towards the end of the half, a cross from Jurrien Timber created a header chance for Declan Rice that required an excellent save from Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. The Belgian then produced another good save from the rebound shot off Gabriel Martinelli.

The second half started with Arsenal on top. The home side came close a few times before Bukayo Saka was fouled in front of the box 13 minutes into the half. Declan Rice stepped up and scored an incredible free-kick goal.

Arsenal continued the pressure, and Courtois and the Real Madrid backline were forced to make some last-ditch saves and blocks to keep Arsenal from getting a second. Their pressure paid off when Saka was once again brought down, resulting in another free-kick. It was again finished spectacularly by Rice to make it 2-0 for the Gunners.

Five minutes later, Myles Lewis-Skelly teed up Mikel Merino for a fine finish to increase their lead to 3-0. Arsenal looked the better team throughout, as Real Madrid was dreadful for the entire second half to much delight of Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta as he led his team to a memorable win.

Arsenal player ratings in the UEFA Champions League vs Real Madrid (4-3-3)

David Raya – 7/10

Made an easy save at the half-hour mark to stop Kylian Mbappé. Was on top of everything and had a relatively quiet game.

Jurrien Timber – 7.5/10

Had an injury scare trying to stop Kylian Mbappé but returned after a little treatment. Put in a great cross close to half-time that led to two shots on target, which required excellent saves from Courtois. Did well to stop Vinícius Júnior’s threat.

William Saliba – 6.5/10

Made a mistake in the first half, but fortunately, nothing came of it. Had an otherwise easy game.

Jakub Kiwior – 6.5/10

Another player who was on top of his game. Real Madrid failed to test the Pole, who hasn’t had much game time.

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7.5/10

Played inverted into midfield from full-back as Arsenal kept possession. Almost created a chance 10 minutes into the second half. Kept Rodrygo silent all match before the Brazilian was taken off.

Martin Ødegaard – 6.5/10

Led the press very high. Combined well with Bukayo Saka a couple of times to good effect in the opening 45 minutes. Made sure his energy and intensity spread throughout the team.

Thomas Partey – 7/10

Had a couple of early shots on target. Did his job in front of the center-backs. Was cautioned. Did well to stop a Kylian Mbappé move late in the half. Nothing went through the middle for Real Madrid.

Declan Rice – 9/10

Had a super header toward the end of the first half that needed a great save from Courtois. Opened the scoring with an excellent free-kick. Had another opportunity amidst intense Arsenal pressure, but it was cleared off the goal line by Jude Bellingham. Scored a second incredible free-kick to increase the lead. Brilliant all-around performance.

Bukayo Saka – 7/10

Put in a great ball across the goal in quick succession in the first 45 minutes. Arsenal's most dangerous player in the opening half. Won the foul that led to Rice’s first free-kick goal, then won another for the second. Taken off injured but did what was expected of him.

Mikel Merino – 7.5/10

Pressed well but failed to anticipate Saka’s balls in the first half. Dropped deep at times to support his teammates. Had two chances to score Arsenal's second however Real Madrid kept those out. Eventually scored the third with a fine finish.

Gabriel Martinelli – 6.5/10

Hit a rebound shot the first time but was saved by Courtois in the first half. Had another shot saved by Courtois in the 66th minute.

Sub: Leandro Trossard – 5.5/10 (on 74' for Saka)

Came on for Saka to maintain intensity. Did what was asked of him.

Sub: Kieran Tierney – 5.5/10 (on 80' for Rice)

Came in to help preserve the lead. Did what was required.

Sub: Ben White – 5/10 (on 90+’ for Timber)

Played out the remaining time without issues.

Manager: Mikel Arteta – 8.5/10

Spot on with his tactics. Apart from a few minutes in the first half, Real Madrid were never in the game. One of his great nights as a manager. Used his squad very well, his changes had a purpose and they maintained the momentum the replaced players had built.