English Premier League
Andriy Lunin surprised by Brahim Diaz’s speed in Real Madrid’s Teresa Herrera win
Andriy Lunin admitted he did not realise how fast Brahim Diaz was after the Real Madrid goalkeeper’s long pass set up the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Deportivo de La Coruna in the Teresa Herrera Trophy on Wednesday.
The result, played at ABANCA-Riazor, secured the friendly tournament for Real Madrid, with Diaz turning Lunin’s delivery into the decisive moment of the match.
Reflecting on the assist, Lunin said: “It happens naturally. When you catch the ball or make a save, you always try to play it quickly. In the end, I didn’t know that Brahim Diaz was that fast.”
Lunin’s pass found Diaz around the halfway line. The Morocco international advanced towards the Deportivo penalty area before completing the move and giving Real Madrid the lead. The goal was enough to claim the Teresa Herrera Trophy for the 10th time.
Diaz was named in the starting line-up for the second consecutive match, having also begun the 2-1 victory over Hungarian side Ferencvarosi TC. However, he was replaced at half-time against Deportivo, with young player Mario Rivas taking his place.
Lunin also described Real Madrid’s opening weeks of pre-season under Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho as demanding but worthwhile.
“It was very exciting, very intense and very hard, but we like that a lot, honestly,” said the Ukraine international.
The goalkeeper praised the atmosphere in A Coruna and said the match had provided valuable preparation for the new campaign.
“It was a very good match, with a wonderful atmosphere in the stadium. Everything was beautiful. More importantly, these games help us prepare for the new season,” Lunin said.
He acknowledged that the second half had become more difficult, particularly from a physical perspective, as Real Madrid continue their preparations.
“The second half was a little complicated, especially physically, because we are still in pre-season. We are working hard and putting in a great deal of effort, but this helps us a lot before the league begins,” he added.
The match was another opportunity for Real Madrid to build fitness and rhythm before the start of the domestic campaign. Diaz’s goal ultimately settled an evenly contested friendly, while Lunin’s quick distribution proved decisive in producing the winning moment.
For Diaz, the appearance was his second successive start, although his early withdrawal meant he did not complete the match. For Real Madrid, the victory added the Teresa Herrera Trophy to their pre-season preparations and gave Lunin a memorable contribution beyond his usual duties in goal.
