Morocco’s Brahim Diaz starts as Real Madrid face Inter Milan in Champions League opener

Moroccan international Brahim Diaz has been named in Real Madrid’s starting line-up for their UEFA Champions League opening match against Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Atlas Lions attacker will feature alongside Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior in Real Madrid’s attack as Jose Mourinho’s side begin their European campaign.

Jude Bellingham also starts for the Spanish giants, who have been forced into changes in midfield because of three suspensions.

Brahim handed major Champions League opportunity

Brahim Diaz’s inclusion in the starting XI provides another significant opportunity for the Moroccan international on one of European football’s biggest stages.

The attacker will line up in a star-studded front three alongside Vinicius Junior and Mbappe, with Bellingham operating behind them.

For Moroccan and African football supporters, Diaz’s involvement will be closely followed as he continues to represent the Atlas Lions at the highest level of club football.

Mourinho reshuffles midfield

Real Madrid are without Bernardo Silva, Eduardo Camavinga and Arda Guler, who are all suspended for the Champions League encounter.

Their absence has forced Mourinho to make changes, with Trent Alexander-Arnold deployed in midfield.

Federico Valverde and Bellingham complete the midfield trio.

Real Madrid starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Courtois

Defence: Dumfries, Hoesen, Konate, Cucurella

Midfield: Valverde, Alexander-Arnold, Bellingham

Attack: Brahim Diaz, Vinicius Junior, Mbappe

Lautaro and Thuram lead Inter attack

Inter Milan, meanwhile, will rely on their familiar attacking partnership of Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram.

The Nerazzurri, managed by Cristian Chivu, travel to the Santiago Bernabeu looking to make a strong start to their Champions League campaign.

Inter Milan starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Martinez

Defence: Bastoni, Piszczek, Pavard

Midfield: Diouf, Barella, Calhanoglu, Jones, Augusto

Attack: Lautaro Martinez, Thuram

With Brahim Diaz handed a starting role in a high-profile European fixture, Morocco’s growing representation at the elite level of European football will once again be in the spotlight.