Real Madrid secured their place in the last 16 of the Champions League with a comfortable 3-0 win over Portuguese side Braga on Wednesday. Despite resting several regular starters, including Jude Bellingham due to a shoulder injury, Real maintained their 100% record with 12 points from four games in Group C. Brahim Diaz opened the scoring with a first-time strike in the 27th minute, assisted by Rodrygo, who later scored an impressive chip over goalkeeper Matheus. Vinicius Jr added a third goal in the 58th minute to seal the victory.
Goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was a last-minute addition to Real’s starting lineup due to an injury suffered by Kepa Arrizabalaga in the warm-up. He made a crucial save in the fourth minute, palming away Alvaro Djalo’s weak effort from the penalty spot after Lucas Vazquez conceded a penalty by holding Cristian Borja inside the box.
Real then took control of the game and could secure top spot in Group C with a point at home against Napoli in their next fixture. The Italian champions are currently second with seven points, four clear of Braga in third place.
Speaking after the match, man-of-the-match Rodrygo expressed his delight, stating that it was a perfect game for Real Madrid. He praised the team’s depth and quality and hoped they would continue performing well in upcoming matches.
Overall, Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Braga was a convincing display of their dominance in Group C and showcased the depth of talent in their squad.