Declan Rice reveals Bukayo Saka message that inspired free-kick heroics against Real Madrid

 Declan Rice has credited teammate Bukayo Saka for inspiring his sensational free-kick goals during Arsenal’s dominant 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final first leg at the Emirates as reported by The Independent.

Rice, who had never scored a direct free-kick at senior level, stunned fans with two expertly taken set-pieces in the second half, helping Arsenal take a commanding lead before Mikel Merino sealed the victory with a third goal late in the match.

Initially, the midfielder was set to deliver a cross, following instructions from captain Martin Odegaard and set-piece coach Nicolas Jover.

However, Rice made a last-minute decision after spotting an opportunity in Madrid’s defensive wall and recalled advice from Saka that gave him the confidence to go for goal.

“Originally we were going to cross it... then I've just seen the wall and the goalkeeper's position. So I thought just go for it,” Rice said. “And Bukayo said to just feel it.”

Saka, returning from a hamstring injury, also impressed during the match, offering Arsenal a vital boost ahead of the crucial second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Despite the emphatic result, Rice is keeping his focus on the task ahead, aware that Real Madrid remains a formidable opponent.

“We need to be ready for next week,” he added, acknowledging the challenge of playing at the Bernabéu.

With momentum on their side, Arsenal now prepare for the return leg with one foot in the semi-finals, aiming to finish what they started on home soil.