Real Madrid win by a narrow margin over RB Leipzig. Real Madrid secured a narrow win over RB Leipzig in their Champions League last-16 clash, thanks to a brilliant goal by Brahim Diaz in the second half. Diaz started in place of Jude Bellingham, who was out of the game due to injury. Despite the absence of the key player, Diaz produced a man-of-the-match performance, scoring a goal in the second half to hand Real Madrid the advantage in the first leg of the tie. The Spanish midfielder dribbled past several opponents before curving the ball into the top corner in the 48th minute, securing victory for Madrid. The club now stand a good chance of making it to the quarter-finals for the 12th time in the past 14 seasons.

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A shaky start

Although Real Madrid had a shaky start, Diaz’s goal secured their position in the match. They continued to dominate after the goal, but were unable to add to their score. Diaz almost set up Vinicius Jr., who hit the outside of the post. They were also indebted to goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, who kept a clean sheet despite Leipzig firing nine shots on target. Real Madrid must address their injury concerns, as Diaz, who replicated Bellingham’s opening celebration, had to be substituted in the final minutes due to a calf injury.

Plenty of wasted chances

Leipzig created plenty of chances, and it was only Lunin’s brilliant performance that denied the hosts a draw. Benjamin Sesko’s second-minute header was disallowed, and Lunin then denied him one-on-one with the legs. Although Sesko had several more opportunities, he was unable to capitalize on them. Xavi Simons, Sesko, and Amadou Haidara all attempted to score, but Lunin made a series of solid stops late in the game, enabling Real Madrid to maintain their lead.

Toni Kroos produced another outstanding performance, while Lunin was spectacular in replacing Thibaut Courtois. On the other hand, Leipzig should be content with their performance, as their deep defence mostly restricted the Spanish side but missed opportunities proved costly. . Real Madrid and RB Leipzig will play the second leg of their tie at the Santiago Bernabeu on 6 March.

-Afrogazette-