Brahim Diaz delivered his first telling contribution of the campaign on Sunday, setting up the final goal in Real Madrid’s 3-0 win over newly promoted Real Oviedo in La Liga.
The Moroccan international, who was handed his first substitute role of the season, made the most of his limited minutes by assisting Vinícius Júnior for Madrid’s third goal of the evening.
Head coach Xabi Alonso had started Diaz in last week’s match against Osasuna, but the winger’s display fell below expectations and he was left out of the starting line-up this time.
Instead, Diaz was introduced midway through the second half and required just 28 minutes to make a decisive impact.
His assist came as Madrid tightened their grip on the game, already two goals ahead and dominating possession. Diaz picked out Vinícius with precision, allowing the Brazilian forward to slot home and complete the scoring.
The moment marked Diaz’s first direct involvement in a goal this season after two appearances in Spain’s top flight.
For the 25-year-old, the contribution provides a timely response after criticism of his earlier performance. Known for his versatility across the attacking line, Diaz has often been praised for his creativity and technical ability but has struggled at times to cement a consistent starting role at Madrid. With fierce competition in attacking positions, every opportunity to influence matches carries added importance.
The victory over Oviedo extended Madrid’s strong start to the season, with Alonso’s side demonstrating efficiency in front of goal and defensive solidity against their newly promoted opponents.
While the result was largely expected, Diaz’s assist stood out as a positive subplot, signalling his determination to fight for a more prominent role in the squad.
The winger’s connection with Vinícius Júnior also offered a glimpse of the attacking combinations Alonso may rely on during the long campaign ahead. For Madrid supporters, Diaz’s sharp cameo was a reminder of the depth available to the team as they pursue domestic and European ambitions.
Speaking after the match, club insiders suggested that Alonso is eager to see greater consistency from the Moroccan, particularly in games where patience and precision are required.
Diaz’s ability to change the tempo and create chances from wide positions makes him a useful option, but the challenge remains in translating flashes of quality into sustained performances.
For Diaz himself, the assist represents an important early milestone in the season. After battling for opportunities since returning from previous loan spells, his role at Madrid is once again under the spotlight.
Delivering in key moments, as he did against Oviedo, will be essential in proving his value to Alonso and the squad.
Real Madrid’s attention will now turn to their upcoming fixtures, where squad rotation is expected to continue. With competition fierce in attack, Diaz’s contribution could strengthen his case for further involvement.
For now, however, the Moroccan can take satisfaction in marking his first decisive action of the season — a reminder of his capability to influence games even when starting from the bench.
VINICIUS JUNIOR PASSEUR DECISIF ET MAINTENANT BUTEUR
En 30 minutes.pic.twitter.com/ryDOuupV2R
— Gio CR7 (@ArobaseGiovanny) August 24, 2025