Declan Rice scored two of the most outrageous free kicks in Champions League history in Arsenal’s win over Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium.
Those free kicks were the catalyst for a 3-0 triumph that will give the Gunners a massive advantage heading into the second leg in Madrid next Wednesday.
But how does Rice’s efforts compare to some of the most iconic free kick goals ever scored? IOL Sport looked at five other "worldies" from dead-ball situations that were also spectacular in nature and importance.
Ranking the greatest free kicks of all time is subjective, as it depends on factors like technique, context, distance, and impact. These selections draw from their technical brilliance, historical significance, and unforgettable moments they created.
Two special Declan Rice free-kicks 😍
Lautaro golazo 😮💨
Merino first-time finish 🎯@Heineken | #UCLGOTD pic.twitter.com/y8YpK7iC1e
Roberto Carlos: Brazil vs. France, 1997
From almost 40 metres out, Roberto Carlos struck a seemingly impossible free kick with the outside of his left foot. The ball swerved dramatically, starting wide of the goal before curling back into the top corner, leaving France goalkeeper Fabien Barthez stunned.
Why is it great?
The physics-defying trajectory, combined with its sheer audacity makes it a standout. Many consider it the greatest free kick of all time.
Lionel Messi Barcelona vs. Liverpool, 2019
Lionel Messi stepped up and curled a 30-yard free kick into the top corner past Alisson Becker, sealing a 3-0 win for Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Liverpool.
Why is it great?
The precision, power, and timing in a high-stakes Champions League match, coupled with its recognition as one of Messi’s 62 career free-kick goals, makes it a shoe-in for this list.
David Beckham: England vs Greece, 2001
In stoppage time, David Beckham bent a 25-yard free kick into the top corner to secure a 2-2 draw, ensuring England’s qualification for the 2002 World Cup.
Why is it great?
Cometh the hour, cometh the England captain … The clutch moment, combined with Beckham’s trademark curl, etched it into English football folklore.
Juninho Pernambucano Lyon vs Bayern Munich, 2003
Juninho, who scored 44 free-kick goals for Lyon, unleashed a dipping, swerving shot from 35 yards that fooled German goalkeeping icon Oliver Kahn, who hit his head on the post trying to save it.
Why is it great?
Juninho’s free kick showcased his mastery, and this one exemplifies his signature knuckleball technique, which most footballers are yet to master. It is a benchmark for set-piece excellence.
Sinisa Mihajlovic Lazio vs Sampdoria, 1998
Sinisa Mihajlovic scored a hat-trick of free kicks in one match for Lazio, with the third - a 35-yard rocket - standing out for its precision and power.
Why is it great?
Scoring three free kicks in a single game is a rare feat, and this one highlighted his 66 career set-piece goals. A dead-ball wizard.