Owen Hargreaves likened Brahim Diaz to Lionel Messi following an impressive individual goal for Real Madrid against RB Leipzig.

Brahim Diaz’s outstanding performance for Real Madrid in their 1-0 triumph over RB Leipzig has earned him high praise from TNT Sports expert Owen Hargreaves, who drew comparisons between the Spaniard and Argentine legend Lionel Messi.

Diaz was given the opportunity to start by Carlo Ancelotti in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League last-16 clash, replacing the injured Jude Bellingham. The English international is set to spend several weeks on the sidelines due to a sprained ankle.

Bellingham has been a standout player for Real this season, but Diaz seized his chance by scoring a magnificent winner in the second half, evading three Leipzig defenders before curling the ball into the top corner. Former UEFA Champions League winner Owen Hargreaves was left in awe by the goal and described it as “Messi-esque.”

Hargreaves further praised Diaz’s performance, stating, “Jude is different. Physically he’s bigger, he’s stronger, but this goal is absolutely stunning. One of the best I’ve seen.” Ex-Real Madrid striker Michael Owen also showered Diaz with compliments, likening his style of play to that of Lionel Messi.

Diaz celebrated his goal by imitating Bellingham’s trademark celebration, and the injured star was quick to congratulate his teammate on social media, writing, “Oh my god Brahim!!!” Unfortunately, Diaz was forced off the pitch with an injury towards the end of the match, but he believes it is not a serious problem.

In addition to Diaz’s heroics, Real Madrid can also thank goalkeeper Andriy Lunin for his exceptional saves, which ensured that the team heads into the second leg at the Bernabeu with an advantage. Owen believes that Leipzig will regret their missed opportunities, especially considering the daunting task of overturning a deficit in the Spanish capital. He stated, “They had so many chances, I think clearer chances probably than Madrid, so they’ll be disappointed not going to the Bernabeu with a result. It’s not game over but it’s virtually.”