Arsenal’s emphatic 3–0 win over Real Madrid has been forever marked by Declan Rice’s stunning double free-kick—a performance made even more iconic by the unexpected presence of Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos in the stands.
Photographs and video footage confirm that Carlos was at the Emirates Stadium, and his very presence has now sparked comparisons among fans who see a similar spark in New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby’s recent offensive outburst, thanks to Olympic champion Sunisa Lee seated courtside.
Arsenal stunned 15‑time European champions Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final at the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta’s side controlled the game with tactical precision, building pressure slowly before unleashing a second‑half onslaught.
The turning point of the clash came when midfielder Declan Rice stepped up in the 58th minute to score his very first senior direct free-kick.
With a sublime curling effort, Rice sent the ball arching around the wall and into the top corner, leaving Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois stranded. Rice repeated his magic 12 minutes later with an even more precise free-kick.
The fact that the Englishman’s stunning display came in front of Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos sparked comparison with OG Anunoby’s performance against the Phoenix Suns.
Anunoby exploded for 32 points, along with six rebounds and three assists, helping the Knicks secure a 112–98 win.
The striking similarity lies in how both athletes seemingly found an extra gear when inspired by a celebrity presence. Fans are humorously noting that just as Rice appeared to channel Roberto Carlos—using his presence as a kind of motivational talisman to execute his free‑kicks with clinical precision—Anunoby’s performance was similarly elevated by the sight of Olympic gymnastics champion Sunisa Lee sitting courtside.
declan rice seeing roberto carlos in the stands
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pic.twitter.com/hKgpetOP6Z(@UTDCJ_) April 8, 2025
The Gunners will hope Declan Rice is on his game again as the 3-0 first leg win has set up a tantalizing prospect for the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.
