Brahim Diaz’s Goal Puts Real Madrid Ahead in Champions League Derby

MADRID, Spain — A superb goal from Brahim Diaz helped Real Madrid secure a 2-1 advantage over Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match at Santiago Bernabeu on March 4, 2025. The victory extends Real’s dominance over their bitter rivals in key European clashes.

Real Madrid took an early lead just four minutes into the match when Rodrygo capitalized on a pass from Fede Valverde, slipping past Javi Galan to score with a low shot across goalkeeper Jan Oblak. This goal marked Rodrygo’s fifth of the Champions League season.

Atletico responded in the 32nd minute with Julian Alvarez executing a brilliant individual effort, curling a shot past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after weaving through Madrid’s defense. Alvarez’s goal was a testament to his form, having netted 10 goals in 14 matches leading up to the derby.

Despite Atletico’s efforts to maintain pressure, Madrid reclaimed their lead in the 55th minute, thanks to Diaz, who showcased his skill by maneuvering around Gimenez to finish decisively. Coach Carlo Ancelotti had hoped to see a renewed commitment from his players after their recent LaLiga loss to Real Betis, and he was satisfied with their performance.

The match featured a gritty midfield battle, with Atletico managing to contain prolific attackers Vinicius Junior and Neymar. However, as the match progressed, Diego Simeone’s side seemed to accept their fate, settling for a slim deficit ahead of the return leg.

In the closing moments, Atletico pushed for an equalizer, but neither side could threaten significantly until stoppage time. Real Madrid’s potential third goal came close through Luka Modric, whose shot was saved by Oblak.

With this win, Real Madrid heads into the return leg with a promising position. The second encounter will take place at Metropolitano Stadium next week, where Atletico will seek to overturn Madrid’s one-goal lead.

In other Champions League action, Barcelona edged Benfica 1-0 in a tense match, and Bayern Munich triumphed over Bayer Leverkusen with a decisive 3-0 win.