Mikel Arteta's side put down a challenge on Tuesday evening as they dismantled former Champions League finalists Atletico Madrid 4-0 at the Emirates
21:53, 21 Oct 2025Updated 21:53, 21 Oct 2025
Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid 4-0 on Tuesday
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Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid 4-0 on Tuesday(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal sent a message on Tuesday evening: Mikel Arteta's side are the real deal.
The Gunners' supremacy from set-pieces has been evident for the past couple of seasons, but this time they took it up a level - on a European evening, outplaying Atlético Madrid at their own game.
In a hostile atmosphere, Arsenal controlled the tempo, frustrated their opponents, and punished them ruthlessly whenever a dead-ball opportunity arose. Declan Rice, in particular, is fast becoming the undisputed master of the free-kick.
"It was such a teasing and inviting ball. Very, very hard to defend," his cross for the opener was described. "That delivery is wonderful. It was absolutely begging for someone to get there head onto it.
"So many times we have seen Gabriel do it, and he's done it again!"
Mikel Arteta's side are set-piece kings
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Mikel Arteta's side are set-piece kings(Image: Javier Garcia/Shutterstock)
Rice's performance also made waves on social media: "Declan Rice delivery on set pieces is top three in the world right now!"
"Rice is such a set piece demon, the delivery is insanely consistent," a second said. While a third added: "There is a serious agenda I’m going to have to run on this Rice set piece delivery!"
And another added: "Declan Rice has the best delivery in world football and I’m not sure it’s close!"
Arsenal's Gabriel, right, scores the opening goal during the Champions League opening phase soccer match between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid in London, England, Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025
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Declan Rice's set-piece deliveries were praised on social media(Image: AP)
Arteta has built a team around capitalising on their set-piece authority - and it's hard to see how they are stopped. It's not luck they're scoring so many - it’s relentless, choreographed pressure.
The meticulous detail is evident in each and every corner routine - it almost feels rehearsed, akin to an American Football play.
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The near-post flick-ons; the late runs from the edge of the box; the precision of Rice’s deliveries make Arsenal deadly from every angle.
Atleti are a team in transition, but Arsenal looked imperious. You don't score four against them by chance.