Declan Rice has admitted feeling frustrated with his performance despite scoring his first-ever Champions League goal during Arsenal’s dominant 3-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb.
The Gunners’ emphatic win at the Emirates Stadium puts them in prime position to secure a spot in the last 16 of the competition, bypassing the need for additional play-off fixtures next month. Rice opened the scoring in just the second minute of the game, with Kai Havertz and captain Martin Ødegaard adding second-half goals to seal the triumph.
While the England international celebrated his landmark goal, he was critical of a missed opportunity later in the match, where he failed to convert a header following a pinpoint cross from substitute Ethan Nwaneri.
Rice Reflects on Missed Chances
Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Rice expressed his disappointment: “Honestly, I’m so annoyed. I had a similar chance against Manchester United [in the FA Cup], and I missed that one too. It’s frustrating because I’m getting into the right positions when I play as an eight, but I need to be more clinical.
“Scoring in the first half was great, but I really should have added a second. Still, to get my first Champions League goal feels amazing—it’s taken two seasons, but I’m delighted. Hopefully, there are plenty more to come.”
Arteta’s Tactical Demands on Midfielders
Rice also shed light on manager Mikel Arteta’s emphasis on shared goal contributions, particularly from the midfield, amid Arsenal’s ongoing search for a striker ahead of the January transfer window.
“The manager has been pushing us hard to make those late runs into the box,” Rice revealed. “He’s told us how important it is for midfielders to chip in with goals—it can make such a difference. It’s about covering that extra five or ten yards to be in the right place at the right time.
“Martin [Ødegaard] showed that perfectly at the end of the game, and I managed it for the header. It’s something we all need to keep working on, but it’s great to see everyone contributing.”
A Positive Champions League Campaign
Arsenal’s convincing win further solidifies what has been a strong Champions League campaign. Reflecting on the team’s performance, Rice added: “This was an important win for us. We’ve been really positive throughout this campaign, and now there’s just one more group-stage match to go. Hopefully, we can end it with another victory.”
As speculation continues about Arsenal’s plans to strengthen their attacking lineup in the upcoming transfer window, Arteta will undoubtedly be pleased to see his midfielders stepping up to share the scoring load. For Rice, the goal against Dinamo Zagreb was a step forward—but he’s determined to keep improving his finishing touch in the weeks to come.
