The former AC Milan loanee demonstrated that Carlo Ancelotti’s team can thrive even in the absence of their star player, at least when facing less formidable opponents in La Liga.
Brahim Diaz deputized impressively for the rested Jude Bellingham, notching Real Madrid’s first goal and emerging as a creative force in the midfield as they easily defeated an ambitious Las Palmas side on Wednesday. This attacking midfielder, making his first La Liga start for Madrid since 2019, showcased that his team possesses a credible substitute whenever Bellingham requires a break.
Madrid came close early on, Rodrygo stinging the palms of goalkeeper Alvaro Valles after the home side won the ball in the Las Palmas box. There were further chances, too, as Joselu was denied twice in quick succession, and Brahim squandered a one-on-one.
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But the midfielder kept his composure in first-half stoppage-time, firing a shot into the top corner off a Lucas Vazquez cut-back. Madrid then doubled their advantage early in the second half, with Joselu nodding Rodrygo’s cross into the top corner after a flowing move.
Things died down after Brahim was replaced shortly before the hour mark, as Los Blancos created admittedly less, and had few chances. Still, they snagged three vital points in La Liga to overtake Barcelona, but stay behind surprise leaders – and their opponents this Saturday – Girona.