‘I saw Declan Rice’s free-kicks stun Real Madrid – the spirit of Titi was with Arsenal’

Declan Rice stunned us all on Tuesday evening, and I was there to watch the spirit of Titi inspire us to victory against Real Madrid

Let’s be real: coming into this match, the underdog was clear – and no, it’s not the side with 15 titles under their belt.

As an Arsenal fan, I’ve often found myself tearing my hair, nibbling my nails, and praying to Thierry Henry for a break. But not tonight.

Tuesday night was historic. A statement we belong at the top of European football. And I know, it’s only the first leg, but I’d have been ecstatic with a 1-0 win, or even an acceptable draw!

Sat in the North end, Kylian Mbappe’s speed and threat were the only real danger – his presence even more impressive live.

But, in the second half, along came Declan Rice. For a man who’s never scored a direct free-kick in his career, came the perfect moment to change that.

And it was so nice, he went and did it twice! His second goal was clinical, leaving Thibaut Courtois – who had been brilliant – no chance. While my brother stayed firmly seated, wide-eyed in disbelief, the crowd celebrated wildly, chanting proudly, “we got him half price”.

But alongside this, what tipped us over? Was it the defenders’ seamless and fluid positioning, stifling Real’s attack? Or the midfield’s impeccable ball retention? Or a third goal from our ‘make-do’ striker assisted by an 18 year old?

Whilst obviously wanting a win, there was one other thing that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wanted, and that was a “special atmosphere to generate momentum”.

And just like a child at Christmas, his wish was granted. That energy didn’t start at the stadium however; it was in the air all day, perhaps even all week.

Before the game, this belief was tangible. Five consecutive strangers en route to the game echoed our battle song, singing “Aaarsenal” down the street.

Usually when I wear my Arsene Wenger coat, I get taunts from embarrassing boys asking me who our captain is. But tonight was about business, and Arteta’s message was clear: we “play with them”.

At King’s Cross, Real Madrid fans made their presence felt long before I saw them, with synchronised belts of ‘Hala Madrid!’ while bashing the tube doors for percussion. It got so intense a lady looked at me and said ‘I’d take your cap off if I were you’.

I’ve never felt so defensive. Luckily, the compartment all smiled as I laughed and knocked the cannon crest on my chest. If Arteta wanted unity, some opposing fans were not taking that from me.

15 minutes before kick off, the stadium was a fever pitch, helped by the Arsenal Ultras unveiling a tifosi of Thierry Henry – a hark back to great Champion’s League nights and a fitting sign for what ensued.

Lo and behold, the spirit of Titi was upon us.

With countdowns, beats, red flares, and fireworks, it was more than just a match. And whilst I’d like to live in this victory forever, the reality is the Bernabeu awaits next week. But right now, it’s hard to feel any prouder of my team.