With the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi‑final against Paris Saint‑Germain looming on Wednesday, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has issued a rallying cry: it’s time for “big balls” and “magic moments.” Trailing 1–0 from the first leg in Paris, Rice insists that audacious courage and moments of individual brilliance will be the difference if Arsenal are to reach their first Champions League final since 2006.
No Fear, Only Belief
Rice pointed to Arsenal’s fearless run so far—knocking out PSV Eindhoven and then staging a stunning comeback against Real Madrid in the quarter‑finals—as proof that this squad thrives under pressure. “We showed no fear against Madrid; we showed no fear in the group stage when we beat PSG 2–0. Now we need that same spirit, but turned up a notch,” he said.
Defining “Magic Moments”
When asked what he meant by “magic moments,” Rice didn’t hesitate. He reminded everyone of his two sumptuous free‑kick goals against Real Madrid—strikes that swung the tie and injected belief into the whole team. “That’s the kind of moment we need again: someone stepping up, taking a risk, and delivering something special,” he explained.
Full‑Strength Arsenal Ready to Roar
Good news for Arsenal fans: central midfielder Thomas Partey returns from suspension to bolster the engine room alongside Rice. Add the creative spark of Martin Ødegaard, the dynamism of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, plus a backline marshaled by William Saliba, and Mikel Arteta has the weapons to go for the jugular.
PSG Challenge—and Opportunity
PSG, buoyed by their slender first‑leg advantage, will be favorites at the Parc des Princes. Yet Arsenal have already shown they can win there—and more importantly, that they can overturn deficits when it matters most. Rice’s call for “big balls” isn’t bravado; it’s a challenge to his teammates to embrace the moment, seize control, and make history.
Looking Ahead
As kick‑off approaches on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, all eyes will be on whether Arsenal can summon those magic moments. Whatever happens, Rice’s words have set the tone: this is a team unafraid to dream big, ready to battle, and determined to turn courage into silverware.
“We know what we’re capable of. Now it’s time to show it.” – Declan Rice
