In a thrilling Champions League encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Brahim Díaz emerged as the hero for Real Madrid, securing a narrow 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their round of 16 tie. The 25-year-old forward, starting due to Jude Bellingham’s suspension, seized his opportunity by netting the winning goal that has given Madrid a crucial advantage heading into the second leg.
Díaz displayed impressive footwork and determination, weaving through three defenders before unleashing a precise strike from inside the box just ten minutes into the second half. His decisive goal not only electrified the Madrid fans but also earned him an exuberant celebration that resulted in a yellow card as he leapt into the crowd to celebrate.
“Scoring here is an incredible feeling,” Díaz remarked after his performance. “We still have to deliver a strong performance in the return match – nothing is decided yet.” Díaz’s memorable contribution was recognized with a standing ovation from the home supporters when he made way for Endrick in the 89th minute.
Real Madrid’s coach, Carlo Ancelotti, expressed confidence in Díaz’s abilities, instructing him to play Bellingham’s role while seizing any offensive opportunities that came his way. With star players Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior struggling to make an impact, Díaz’s contribution was invaluable.
Díaz, who chose the Morocco national team despite being born in Spain, had also started for Madrid in their recent Spanish league defeat at Real Betis, where he netted their only goal. Now, he has amassed six goals across 11 starts in league competition this season.
The second leg awaits next week at the Metropolitano stadium, where Atletico Madrid will seek to overcome their Champions League woes against their city rivals. Historical results see Atletico having succumbed twice to Madrid in finals—2014 and 2016—and eliminated in the knock-out stages in 2015 and 2017. The Madrid derbies in the Spanish league this season both ended stalemates, adding further intrigue to the upcoming clash.
In a match featuring brilliant early goals, Rodrygo opened the scoring for Madrid within just four minutes. A superb pass from Federico Valverde found Rodrygo in stride, allowing him to breeze past Javi Galán before executing a deft dribble and hammering the ball into the net via a left-footed strike.
Atletico responded with resilience, equalizing through Julián Álvarez’s well-taken finish past the half-hour mark. The Argentine striker, picking up the ball on the flank, skillfully bypassed Eduardo Camavinga and delivered a curling effort that eluded Thibaut Courtois before nestling in the far corner—his effort clattering off the post en route.
With 15 goals in just 26 Champions League matches, Álvarez’s growing influence in European competition was evident, with a goal tally surpassing Lionel Messi’s early UCL career. Reflecting on the match, Álvarez stated, “They took their chances at crucial moments. We had our spells of pressure and control, and it’s all to play for at home.”
