Real Madrid goalscorer shows 'respect' to Man City with muted celebration | OneFootball

The attacking midfielder came back to haunt his former club

Real Madrid scorer Brahim Diaz says he refused to celebrate his goal out of respect for Manchester City.

Brahim climbed off the bench to equalise for Real Madrid in their Champions League knockout phase first-leg at the Etihad Stadium.

Reacting quickest to Ederson parrying Vinicius Jr’s effort, the 25-year-old made no mistake from close range.

Explaining his low-key celebration, the Morocco international revealed he showed Man City respect having spent his formative years at the club and after having his named chanted by supporters a few seasons ago.

“I'm so happy at this club, it's where I've always dreamed of playing,” Brahim said. “I went on to celebrate because of where I am and what we're playing for, but I was at City for a good few years and I'm really grateful to them.

“I scored twice here a couple of years ago and they chanted my name, so I had to show a bit of respect.”

Real Madrid snatched victory in injury time thanks to Jude Bellingham’s goal which means they take a one-goal lead into next week’s second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Though, Brahim insists the tie is not over.

“This isn't over yet, we still have to play the second leg,” he added. “Of course, it's at home and it's a different story, that's much better. I'm really pleased with the win and how it came about. It was a really complete performance, I'm happy to have got the goal and to be able to help the team.

“I don't like to talk about justice. This is football, you can always play well and lose. I think we put on a very good display. It's never easy to come here, they're a pretty good side. We still have the second leg, our work isn't done yet.

“We capitalised on their mistakes and created a lot of chances. The team did a fantastic job, we competed really well against top opposition and we won it. This is Real Madrid, the greatest club in the world.”