After more than 300 days without playing a game and over 1,100 days without scoring a goal, former Real Madrid forward Mariano Diaz made a triumphant return in a friendly between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Mariano, who previously played for Madrid and Sevilla, found the back of the net within the first 20 minutes of the match, ending both of his personal droughts in spectacular fashion.
The goal came from a long ball over the top, which Mariano controlled with his chest before slotting it home with his right foot. It was a moment reminiscent of his stoppage-time goal against Barcelona in 2020, showcasing his quality and finishing ability. The Dominican Republic national team, for whom Mariano has committed to play in upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the Concacaf Gold Cup, welcomed him with open arms.
Manager Marcelo Neveleff, who had pushed for Mariano’s inclusion in the team, expressed his delight at the striker’s performance and the impact he had on the game. Despite not having a club for the past 10 months, Mariano showed no signs of rustiness and proved to be a valuable addition to the Dominican Republic squad.
Neveleff described Mariano as a “tough kid” with strong mental fortitude, highlighting his dedication to training even during his time without a club. The manager emphasized the importance of staying physically and mentally sharp, especially during periods of inactivity, and praised Mariano for his professionalism and commitment.
With the World Cup qualifiers and the Gold Cup on the horizon, Mariano’s return to form couldn’t have come at a better time for the Dominican Republic. The team is currently third in their qualifying group, aiming for a historic first appearance in the prestigious tournament. Neveleff is optimistic about Mariano’s future and believes that the striker will soon find a new club to continue his career.
The Dominican Republic has been making significant strides in football in recent years, qualifying for major tournaments and attracting talented players from Europe. With Mariano’s resurgence, the team is poised to achieve even greater success on the international stage. As the striker looks to make an impact both for his country and potentially relaunch his club career, all eyes will be on his performance in the upcoming matches.
