We're fortunate to have conceded only 3 goals - Jude Bellingham on defeat to Arsenal

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham admitted that his side was fortunate to escape with a 3-0 loss in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal tie against Arsenal on Tuesday night.

The Spanish giants were outclassed by the English side, with Declan Rice scoring two brilliant free-kicks and Mikel Merino adding a late goal to seal a dominant victory for Arsenal, the defending and record Champions League holders.

The match, which initially seemed to be in Real Madrid’s favor, quickly spiraled out of control, leaving fans and critics alike in disbelief. Despite the final scoreline of 3-0, it was widely felt that the margin could have been even greater. 

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was crucial in keeping the scoreline respectable, making a series of vital saves, including a smart double save to deny Rice’s header and a follow-up from Gabriel Martinelli.

"We're lucky to get away with only three. We were nowhere near it. That’s the fact, and Arsenal were really good," Bellingham said after the match. 

"I know two of their goals were free-kicks, but they could have had way more. There’s still a second leg, and that’s what we’re holding on to."

With Real Madrid never having beaten Arsenal before, they now face a monumental challenge in overturning a 3-0 deficit when the second leg takes place on April 16.