Real Madrid hold off Deportivo de La Coruna in pre-season test at Riazor

Real Madrid began their preparations for the new season with a narrow 1-0 friendly victory over Deportivo de La Coruna at ABANCA-Riazor on Wednesday evening, with Brahim Diaz scoring the only goal of the match in first-half stoppage time.

The hosts made the brighter start and enjoyed a slight advantage during an even opening period, while Real Madrid struggled to create clear opportunities. However, the visitors took the lead in the 45th minute of added time through a swift counter-attack that began with a decisive intervention from goalkeeper Andriy Lunin.

Lunin dealt with a dangerous Deportivo corner before quickly releasing the ball by hand towards Diaz. The forward collected possession near the halfway line and drove into the home side’s penalty area, despite being pursued by several defenders, before finishing into the net and celebrating in his familiar style.

Real Madrid controlled long stretches of the contest after the interval, using quick passing and extended spells of possession to put Deportivo under pressure. During one well-worked move, the visitors broke into the penalty area with a slick passing sequence, but Denzel Dumfries’ cross lacked the quality needed for his team-mates to take advantage.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side came close to extending their advantage on more than one occasion. Deportivo goalkeeper Leo Roman produced an excellent save to deny Endrick after the Brazilian had found space for a dangerous attempt.

Real Madrid also had a second goal ruled out. Carlos Espi appeared to have doubled the lead after receiving a precise pass from Eduardo Camavinga, but the effort was disallowed for offside.

Deportivo responded by introducing a large number of substitutes and used the fresh legs to increase the pressure on Real Madrid. The movement of David Mella and Mario Soriano created a number of problems for Lunin, who was called upon to protect his side’s advantage.

The home team enjoyed more possession as the final whistle approached and searched for an equaliser in front of their supporters. Their best late opportunity was stopped by Dumfries, who made a crucial intervention to block a shot from a promising position.

Real Madrid ultimately held on for the win, securing a valuable confidence boost from their visit to ABANCA-Riazor. The result also offered encouragement regarding the readiness of the club’s younger players as the squad continues its build-up to the start of competitive football.

The victory allows Real Madrid to continue their pre-season preparations in positive mood, while Deportivo de La Coruna will take the experience of facing one of Spain’s leading sides into their own preparations for the new campaign.