Arsenal are now firmly in control of their UEFA Champions League last-16 clash after Declan Rice fired home a sensational second goal to make it 2-0 against Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium.
The decisive moment came in the 64th minute, when Rice produced a stunning strike, showcasing top-class technique to beat the goalkeeper and double Arsenal’s advantage. The goal sends the home crowd into a frenzy and puts the English side in a commanding position in the tie.
Earlier in the match, Eberechi Eze opened the scoring with a brilliant long-range effort, assisted by Leandro Trossard, setting the tone for a dominant Arsenal performance.
Coming into the game after a 1-1 draw in Germany, Mikel Arteta’s men knew that only a win would secure qualification and avoid the drama of penalties. Now, with a two-goal cushion, Arsenal are edging closer to a third consecutive Champions League quarter-final appearance, where Sporting CP await.
Arsenal’s starting lineup has delivered when it matters most, with key contributions across the pitch. Rice has controlled the midfield alongside Martin Zubimendi, while Bukayo Saka and Trossard have kept constant pressure on the Leverkusen defense.
Bayer Leverkusen, led by Kasper Hjulmand, now face an uphill battle. Despite arriving in London with momentum, they have struggled to contain Arsenal’s intensity and attacking quality.
With the tie slipping away from the German side, Arsenal look confident, composed, and on course for a huge Champions League statement win.
🚨🇪🇺 | GOAL: DECLAN RICE DOUBLES THE LEAD FOR ARSENAL!
3-1 ON AGGREGATE!
Arsenal 2-0 Bayer Leverkusen. pic.twitter.com/97ySXGqCQS
— الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز (@alhjaj_abw10188) March 17, 2026
