Diomande scores first Real Madrid goal to beat Villarreal

Ivory Coast winger Yan Diomande scored his first goal for Real Madrid as his side returned to winning ways with a victory over Villarreal in the eighth round of La Liga.

Diomande’s goal secured a win for Real Madrid after their 2-1 defeat by city rivals Atletico de Madrid in the Madrid derby.

“It was a good match. We always play to win, and that is what we did against Villarreal. I am happy with this victory,” Diomande said in comments published by the club’s website.

The Ivory Coast international added that playing at Santiago Bernabeu remained a special experience.

“It is always great to play here at Santiago Bernabeu. It is the most beautiful stadium in the world and the biggest club. I always feel excited to play here,” he said.

Diomande, who joined Real Madrid from Leipzig in the summer in a record transfer, had made eight appearances without scoring before finding the net against Villarreal.

“I am happy. I have been waiting for this first goal for a long time,” he said.

The winger also spoke of his hopes of featuring for Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

“I am very excited to play in the Champions League. It is every child’s dream, and I am grateful to play for Real Madrid in this great competition,” Diomande said.

The victory moved Real Madrid on to 18 points and into third place in the La Liga table.

They are one point behind second-placed Atletico de Madrid and six points adrift of leaders Barcelona.

Villarreal remain on eight points in 10th place.