(Credit TNT Sports)
Wed 16 April 2025 20:56, UK
Declan Rice’s treatment in a dramatic first half between Arsenal and Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu should see the game stopped by the referee, according to Keith Hackett.
The former Premier League and FIFA referee, and ex-head of the PGMOL, exclusively told Football Insider that missiles thrown from the stands at the Gunners midfielder should see the police involved.
As the Arsenal and England star lined up to take a corner on 13 minutes, moments after Bukayo Saka‘s Panenka penalty had been saved by Thibaut Courtois at the same end, he complained to the officials of items raining down from the fans.
Rice was the star of the 3-0 Arsenal win in the first leg at the Emirates after scoring a pair of stunning free kicks, and Madrid fans reacted in the aftermath of the early penalty drama.
Rice scored twice against Real Madrid at the Emirates (Credit Imago)Declan Rice pelted with missiles at Santiago Bernabeu
Speaking live on the TNT Sports coverage commentator Darren Fletcher said (8.13pm, 16 April): “I think Declan Rice might have been hit by something that’s been thrown from the crowd, that’s what he’s indicating to the French referee.
“It’s like a powder keg in here.”
The officials took no obvious action, but Hackett believes major steps should have been implemented straight away involving the authorities inside the stadium to stamp out any further issues.
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Rice conceded a penalty at the other end shortly after for a perceived pull on Kylian Mbappe, whose one-game ban outraged Hackett before kick off, in the box, but after a lengthy VAR delay the decision was overturned and the game remained goalless at the break.
Keith Hackett reacts to incident in Champions League
Speaking exclusive to Football Insider the former FIFA referee said: “The referee should stop the game and bring the UEFA Delegate. the Ground Controller and the Police Ground Commander to the side of the field of play.
“He should request the increase of stewards and police numbers at the area where the missive was thrown.
“This then should be followed up with a public broadcast to fans to ensure that they stop.
“The police will be looking at monitors to determine if they can take any immediate action.”
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