Paul Merson Lauds Declan Rice's 'Absolutely Outstanding' Display in Arsenal's Champions League Victory
Former Arsenal and England midfielder Paul Merson has heaped praise on Declan Rice following the Gunners' commanding 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League round of 16. Merson described Rice's performance as 'absolutely outstanding' as Arsenal secured their place in the quarter-finals with a 3-1 aggregate win.
Arsenal Overcome Tough Leverkusen Challenge
After a hard-fought 1-1 draw in the first leg in Germany, Arsenal faced a challenging task against a Bayer Leverkusen side that had maintained a strong defensive record since the beginning of the year. The tension at Emirates Stadium was palpable until Eberechi Eze broke the deadlock with a thunderous strike from outside the box just before halftime, giving Arsenal a crucial 2-1 aggregate lead.
The hosts continued their dominance in the second half, and their persistence paid off in the 63rd minute when Declan Rice doubled Arsenal's advantage with a beautifully controlled shot into the bottom corner of Janis Blaswich's goal. This marked Rice's first Champions League goal of the season and his fifth across all competitions for the north London club.
Merson's Glowing Assessment of Arsenal's Performance
Speaking on Sky Sports after the match, Merson expressed his admiration for Arsenal's comprehensive display. 'Arsenal played very well at times. They are just rolling,' the former midfielder stated. 'I don't want to say "machine" because it is disrespectful, but this is a machine that can do everything. They are a proper team.'
Merson particularly highlighted Rice's contribution, describing his goal as 'phenomenal' and emphasizing his overall impact on the game. 'What a goal,' Merson remarked. 'The corner gets cleared to Declan Rice, it's coming out the air, he takes a touch... you think he's going to shoot, he takes another touch and then whips it in the corner. It's a phenomenal finish by Declan Rice and who, again, has been absolutely outstanding.'
Rice Reflects on Grueling Schedule and Team Effort
Speaking to TNT Sports after the final whistle, Rice acknowledged the challenge posed by Bayer Leverkusen while expressing satisfaction with Arsenal's progression. 'A third year in a row in the quarter-finals. It was a really tough game over the two legs so credit to them, they caused us, even though it may not look like it, a lot of problems on the pitch,' Rice said. 'They're a really good tactical team but in the end we deserved the win tonight.'
The England international also addressed the demanding schedule facing Arsenal, who remain in contention across all competitions. 'I'm shattered. It's non-stop. We are obviously still in all competitions,' Rice admitted. 'It's been every three days since October so it's been different but we've been coping with it the best we can. It is really tiring but when you have a night like tonight, round of 16 to get through to the quarter-finals, you find energy and ways to win and you keep doing that so it's all good.'
Defensive Resilience and Quarter-Final Prospects
Arsenal's victory was built on solid defensive foundations, with goalkeeper David Raya making a crucial save to deny Christian Kofane late in the game. Merson also praised defender Ben White for his steady performance, noting 'whoever comes in, he does a job.'
With their place in the quarter-finals secured, Arsenal will now face Sporting Lisbon in the last eight. The Portuguese side staged a remarkable comeback in their round of 16 tie, recovering from three goals down to defeat Bodo/Glimt 5-0 in the second leg. Arsenal's comprehensive performance against Leverkusen has strengthened their credentials as genuine contenders for European football's most prestigious trophy.
