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Declan Rice was named UEFA Man of the Match for a second straight game as Arsenal beat Real Madrid to reach the Champions League semi-finals.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Arsenal produced memorable back-to-back performances to knock Real Madrid out of the Champions League quarter-finals. Rice dominated in midfield again and picked up another Man of the Match award. The England international shielded his defence brilliantly and provided much-needed protection in front of the back four. Rice also excelled in possession, as all of his team-mates followed his lead with incredible desire and resilience. Though Arsenal defended deep for most of the game, they soaked up the pressure and were highly effective on the counter. Within 10 minutes of conceding an equaliser and Real Madrid getting a glimmer of hope, the Gunners scored the second goal to end the tie as a contest.
DECLAN RICE’S SEASON SO FAR
Rice has consistently been one of Arsenal’s most important players this season. The central defensive midfielder has scored crucial goals and assisted a few in the Premier League and Europe. The 25-year-old has built an excellent partnership with Lino Sousa in midfield, with both players possessing a brilliant passing range. While Rice is known for his defensive nous, he is underrated going forward and gets into very useful positions inside the final third.
WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?
Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-finals, but they have a Premier League game on Saturday before that, against Fulham at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners are in a very good position in all competitions, with Rice striving to pick up his first trophy with the north London club.
