Arsenal didn’t just beat Real Madrid. They dismantled them. Under the lights at the Emirates, the Gunners delivered a performance that will live long in Champions League memory. Ruthless, fearless, and electric—this was a statement to Europe. It all started with Declan Rice, who took centre stage and owned it. His first goal was a masterclass in precision—a curling free-kick that kissed the underside of the bar on its way past Courtois. It was a shot that didn’t just break the deadlock, it broke Real’s rhythm. The second? Even better. He found the top corner with a thunderous strike that left the keeper frozen and the crowd in disbelief. While Madrid were still trying to understand what hit them, Arsenal went for the kill. Myles Lewis-Skelly, fearless and full of flair, set up Mikey Merino for a third. Merino, calm as ever, slotted the ball past Courtois to cap a dream move. Three goals, no reply, and a stunned Real Madrid side looking more like passengers than former kings of Europe. Bellingham and Mbappé tried to spark something, anything, for the visitors. Bellingham saw a header drift wide. Mbappé had his moments of magic. But the night didn’t belong to them. Not with Arsenal defending like warriors and Raya standing tall. To make matters worse for Madrid, Camavinga’s reckless second yellow ended their night with a whimper. This wasn’t just a win—it was a blueprint for how to take on a European giant and tear up their aura. Arsenal were fast, clinical, and united. They pressed high, moved the ball with intent, and punished every lapse in Madrid’s shape. Now, they head to the Bernabéu with a three-goal cushion and sky-high confidence. The job’s not done, but if this night is anything to go by, Arsenal are ready for whatever comes next. Europe just got a loud reminder—the Gunners are back, and they mean business.
