In a stunning turn of events, Arsenal delivered a masterclass performance, thrashing Real Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final at the Emirates Stadium. This victory not only puts the Gunners in a commanding position to advance to the semi-finals for the first time since 2009 but also secures a fifth Champions League spot for the Premier League next season.

The match was defined by two moments of brilliance from Declan Rice, who scored two stunning free-kicks, and a decisive goal from Mikel Merino. Rice's goals, his first senior goals from direct free kicks, were pivotal in breaking down a stubborn Real Madrid defense. His first goal came in the 58th minute, a precise strike that left Real's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with no chance. The second, just twelve minutes later, was a carbon copy, further cementing Arsenal's lead.

Mikel Merino added to Real Madrid's woes with a well-taken third goal in the 75th minute, set up by a perfect cross from Myles Lewis-Skelly. The Spanish international made no mistake, slotting the ball into the bottom corner.

Adding insult to injury for Real Madrid, Eduardo Camavinga received a red card, ruling him out of the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu. This further compounds the challenge for the Spanish giants as they attempt to overturn the deficit.

Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, revealed that he had spoken with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola before the match, seeking advice on how to approach the game against Real Madrid. Arteta acknowledged Guardiola's experience and intelligence, emphasizing the importance of learning from the best. "He’s had a lot of situations like that, professionally and personally,” Arteta said. “We talked coming into this (the first-leg), I wanted to talk to him. And he’s someone who admires the good things we’ve done and it’s important to learn from the best, to learn from people who have that experience. He’s a very intelligent person and I’ve had the good fortune to work with someone like that who has been able to help me much.”

Following the match, Arteta highlighted the team's strong performance, the incredible atmosphere created by the fans, and Declan Rice's contribution as key factors in the victory. "We had a very complete and strong performance as a team," the coach said. "This night was also defined by two factors: the incredible atmosphere we created even before kick-off, something I’ve never seen before, and the magical individual moments that can decide football matches. Declan’s two goals really sum up the night," as per UEFA website.

Real Madrid, however, remains defiant. The club's official channel, Real Madrid TV, sent a stern message to Arsenal, reminding them that "90 minutes at the Santiago Bernabeu is a very long time."

Declan Rice himself reflected on his free-kicks, revealing a discussion with Martin Ødegaard about whether to cross the ball or go for goal. Rice trusted his instincts and, with encouragement from Bukayo Saka, decided to shoot, resulting in two spectacular goals.

With this victory, the Premier League is now assured of having five teams in the Champions League next season, thanks to England topping the European Performance Spot table. This is a result of the collective performance of English clubs across the three European competitions.

Looking ahead, Arsenal will face Brentford in their next Premier League fixture, while Real Madrid will travel to face Alaves in La Liga. The second leg of the Champions League quarter-final will be held on Wednesday, April 16, at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Real Madrid will need to produce a remarkable comeback to overturn Arsenal's 3-0 lead.