Brahim Diaz delivered the decisive moment in Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 clash.
With Jude Bellingham unavailable due to suspension, many expected Eduardo Camavinga to step into the lineup, but Carlo Ancelotti had other plans handing Brahim a rare start.
The 24-year-old seized the opportunity, scoring the match-winner after Rodrygo’s opener had been canceled out by Julian Alvarez. His goal not only secured the victory but also added fuel to the rivalry, as he appeared to direct a celebratory taunt toward Atletico boss Diego Simeone, shouting, “Talk now, talk now!”
Real Madrid fans reveled in the fiery moment, but when asked about it later, Brahim played it down. “No, no, nothing, nothing. I don’t remember,” he said with a grin.
Simeone, however, remained focused on the football. “Brahim played strongly and finished well,” he admitted, acknowledging the Madrid star’s impact.
With the second leg still to come, Brahim’s performance has shifted the spotlight firmly onto him and he may yet have more to say on the pitch.
