Declan Rice and Gabriel Martinelli, still reeling from the devastating loss in the Champions League semi-final, convened in the dressing room to dissect the match. The West Ham midfielder and Arsenal forward, both integral to their respective teams' European campaigns, sought to identify the crucial moments that had swung the tie in favor of their opponents.

Rice, his usually impassive demeanor momentarily cracked, pointed to the concession of cheap set-piece goals as a pivotal factor. "We can't afford to gift them opportunities like that, especially against a side of that quality," he emphasized, his voice laced with frustration.

Gabriel, nodding in agreement, highlighted the need for improved marking and more decisive defending in such situations. "We must learn to adapt and be more proactive in our defensive strategy," the Brazilian forward stressed, his analytical mind already turning to potential solutions.

As they parted ways, both players shared a sense of determination, their disappointment in the immediate result tempered by a resolve to learn from the experience and return stronger in the future.