An unlikely set of heroes delivered a win for the ages against Real Madrid and showed what this squad can achieve

Declan Rice curled home two superb free kicks to help give Arsenal a 3-0 win over defending champion Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals.

Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie against Arsenal comes at a consequential moment for both teams in their pursuit of silverware, even if both sides enter the clash in different positions.

After the Real Madrid victory, while praising Gabriel’s replacement Jakub Kiwior, Arteta confirmed the timescale of Gabriel’s absence.

Reaction as brilliant Gunners demolish visitors on historic Champions League night - Arsenal 3-0 Real Madrid: Declan Rice curled home two sumptuous free-kicks and Mikel Merino scored a third as the Gu

In front of its adoring crowd, the North London club took a huge step towards the Champions League semifinal by beating Spanish juggernaut Real Madrid 3-0 in its quarterfinal first-leg. But amid the frenzied scenes inside the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, the story of the night belonged to one man; Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice.

Jude Bellingham believes Real Madrid were “lucky” to only concede three as Arsenal seized the advantage in their Champions League quarter-final tie.

Injury has become a recurring subplot in this story. What was once a tale of progress and potential now reads more like a war report. As Madrid bring back the firepower of Kylian Mbappé and the leadership of Antonio Rüdiger, both cleared to play despite recent disciplinary scrutiny, Arsenal prepare with tape, bandages, and late fitness tests.