'I love Jude Bellingham!' - Brahim Diaz hails 'world-class' Real Madrid superstar after scoring in Champions League win over RB Leipzig

The former AC Milan player, who came into the starting lineup in place of the injured Jude Bellingham, turned hero for Real Madrid as he scored the winning goal for his team against RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 clash.

After netting the all-important goal, Diaz claimed he shares a very close bond with the English midfielder and hailed him as a world-class player.

Speaking to Movistar after the match, Diaz said, "I love [Bellingham]," Díaz told Movistar. "From the first moment, we've got on really well. I'm helping him with his Spanish. He's a world-class player, I enjoy playing with him. Apart from the charisma he has, he's a great person. Despite the absences of Jude, who we missed, and of [Antonio] Rudiger, and all those [players] who are out injured for a long time, we keep showing that we're a great team, that we're Real Madrid."

After scoring in the 48th minute of the match with a brilliant solo effort, the 24-year-old emulated Bellingham's iconic open-arm celebration. The England international took to X to react to the Spaniard's celebration, posting "Oh my god Brahim!!!"

Los Blancos will now return to La Liga action as they will aim to extend their lead at the top of the table by picking up another three points against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.