Dias (24) was the focal point between RB Leipzig and Real Madrid, a match in which Carlo Ancelotti's side returned to Spain with a valuable advantage (0-1) for the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu. The German created a couple of clear chances after a difficult first half, but the Malaga man saved his side in the third minute of the second half by scoring a goal that had already been sent across the globe.
He received the ball on the right flank, beat three opponents who tried to tackle him (the referee did not award a foul as the Madrid player managed to stay on stand) and eventually smashed the ball into the corner with his left foot. Here he showed one of his important strengths, the ability to shoot equally skillfully with both legs.
What's the story behind this goal? Those who have followed Dias's development closely in recent years have emphasised his importance during his two-year loan spell at AC Milan. Why? The ability to break through opponents is innate, and he's always had it, but at the beginning of his career, he was affected when he faced the toughness of defenders. Fouls have always bothered him because many times it was the only way to stop him, and the problem was that against such a strong opponent, he fell to the ground before he could finish the attack.
Three attempts to knock him down
The best example of this in the goal against Leipzig was the first tackle he received. He almost fell, but he kept his balance and continued to break through. After that, two other defenders tried to stop him for fouls, but the Malaga player remained on his feet.
This is not an accidental result, as the physicality boost he has experienced in Italy has been crucial to his current performance at Real Madrid. These results are also a reward for the player's own efforts, and although he has several ** from Spain, he chose to go to Milan two years ago precisely because he wanted to improve in a different football environment. One of them is to defend against strong defenders.
Patience with young players is key
Meanwhile, Dias' current form has once again demonstrated Real Madrid's patience with young players. The change in policy they adopted a few years ago was also accompanied by an ability not to rush to conclusions. Every player needs his own time to grow, and at Valdebebas they respect that time perfectly.
If he is not injured, he will play with Spain
Luis de la Fuente, meanwhile, has been closely following the Madrid player's development. As reported by Relevo, he has included him in the preliminary list for the friendlies in March (against Colombia and Brazil) and plans to include him in the squad. Only injuries can stop him, and when it was seen that the Malaga player was substituted after Leipzig was injured, there were fears that such could be the case. But until the final check-up, it seems that he has only suffered a minor injury, which will not affect his ability to wear the Spanish jersey next month.