Real Madrid took a crucial step towards the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League with a 1-0 victory over RB Leipzig in the first leg of their last 16 tie on Tuesday night.
The only goal of the game came from an unlikely source, as Brahim Diaz scored a sensational solo effort in the 47th minute. The Spanish winger, who was starting in place of the injured Jude Bellingham, dribbled past three Leipzig defenders before curling a sublime shot into the far corner of the net.
The hosts tried to respond, but they were frustrated by a solid Real Madrid defense and a brilliant performance from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who made nine saves to keep a clean sheet. Leipzig had more shots, corners, and possession than their opponents, but they could not find a way past the Belgian shot-stopper.
Real Madrid, who have won the Champions League a record 13 times, will be confident of finishing the job in the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on March 6. Leipzig, who reached the semi-finals last season, will need to produce a remarkable comeback to keep their European dream alive.
Watch Leipzig vs Real Madrid Video Highlights
https://youtu.be/KJMzIp_4tJM?si=5TKZMlIVbv1XHy-A
