A superb solo goal by Brahim Diaz saw Real Madrid secure a 1-0 victory over RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig.

Three minutes after halftime, Diaz curled a fantastic goal into the top corner to give Real the victory in Germany.

Jude Bellingham, who was injured and unable to play, was replaced in the starting lineup by the Spanish midfielder.

His goal puts Real in an excellent position to reach the quarter-finals for the 12th time in the past 14 seasons.

Leipzig frustrated Real until the 48th minute, when former Manchester City midfielder Diaz turned on the right touchline and beat two opponents, before dancing past several others and curling the ball into the top corner.

Though Vinicius Jr. came the closest to scoring after being set through by the excellent Diaz, the Spaniards were unable to increase their lead.

They were particularly appreciative of goalie Andriy Lunin, who stopped nine chances on goal by Leipzig, and the call to deny Benjamin Sesko’s header in the second minute.

On March 6, Real Madrid will host the second leg at Santiago Bernabeu.

Photo by EPA/FILIP SINGER