Mikel Arteta's side progressed 1-0 on aggregate, with Kai Havertz's stoppage-time strike in the first leg in Lisbon proving the difference. The second leg produced little in the way of goalscoring opportunities — the combined xG of 0.93 was the lowest of any Champions League match this season — but Arsenal held firm and will face Atlético de Madrid in the last four.
Asked after the match whether the performance had been frustrating, Rice was immediate in his response. "Frustrating? Nah, we just got to a semi-final."
"Positivity all the way, who cares what people think, all that matters is what this group thinks, what this manager thinks. We're in another semi-final, I'm delighted."
"We'll keep going, keep playing well, keep getting it over the line. Bring it on. Bring on everything."
It is the first time in Arsenal's history that they have reached back-to-back Champions League semi-finals. Last season they fell at the same stage to Paris Saint-Germain, losing narrowly home and away. The first leg against Atlético is scheduled for 29 April in Madrid.
The achievement comes amid a turbulent period for the club. A 2-1 defeat at home to Bournemouth last weekend damaged their Premier League title ambitions and they face a defining trip to Manchester City on Sunday. Rice acknowledged the noise around the club but made clear it will not affect the dressing room.
"This is Arsenal football club, there's noise with every game. If you don't play well, if you don't play good, take it with a pinch of salt and keep moving."
"Bring on the last few weeks. It's a rollercoaster. Nobody's going to hand you anything in this game. Let's keep going and what will be will be. Let's keep going strong."
Noni Madueke limped off during the second half with a knee injury and is a doubt for the City trip.