Brahim Diaz’s sensational strike secured Real Madrid a narrow lead over city rivals Atletico in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash.

The home side struck early at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Rodrygo breaking the deadlock inside four minutes. The Brazilian burst past Javi Galan, cut inside the box, and curled a stunning effort past Jan Oblak.

Atletico responded in style, leveling in the 32nd minute with a moment of brilliance from Julian Alvarez. The Argentine forward, in red-hot form, wrongfooted Eduardo Camavinga before curling a superb strike past Thibaut Courtois and in off the post. It marked his seventh goal in nine Champions League appearances this season.

However, the night belonged to Diaz, who produced the game’s defining moment in the 55th minute. The Spaniard left defender Jose Gimenez on the ground with a dazzling run before driving a precise low shot into the far corner, restoring Madrid’s lead.

Diaz stepped up in the absence of Jude Bellingham, who was suspended after accumulating three yellow cards. The England midfielder will return for the second leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on March 12, where Madrid will look to seal their place in the quarter-finals. The winner of this tie is likely to face Arsenal, who dominated PSV with a 7-1 victory in their first leg.

Atletico’s Conor Gallagher remained optimistic despite the defeat, telling TNT Sports: "Real Madrid are a top team, but we competed well. We would have preferred a better result, but it's all to play for in the next leg. With our fans behind us, we believe we can beat any team."

Source: BBC

BDST: 0907 HRS, MAR 05, 2025
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