Luis Diaz saved Liverpool from their second defeat of the season in England’s Premier League a week after his parents were kidnapped. Colombia’s soccer team player scored in stoppage time on Sunday to make it 1-1 (0-0) at newly promoted Luton Town.
Diaz’s parents were kidnapped from their homeland last Saturday. The mother was saved. After his goal, Diaz pulled up his jersey and showed the words “Freedom for Dad” on his body.
Reuters/Peter Cziborra
Diaz was back in the Liverpool squad for the first time since his parents were kidnapped. “It’s still pretty emotional,” Klopp said before kick-off. The father’s release is apparently imminent. “All the signs he’s getting are, as far as I know, very positive,” the coach said.
Turbulent final phase
Liverpool started dominantly at the club north of London. There were only a few chances for coach Jürgen Klopp’s team through Darwin Nunez (13th) and Diogo Jota (33rd). After the break, Luton Town had a great chance to take the lead.
Chiedozie Ogbene was denied by Liverpool goalkeeper Allison Becker (65′). On the other side, Nunez shot over the goal from the best position (70′). Then the video assistant was used several times. A possible penalty after a challenge between Teden Mengi and Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk was checked but not given. Klopp was annoyed and was warned by referee Andy Madley.
A short time later, the Liverpool professionals claimed another penalty. In return, Luton countered the favorites: Tahith Chong scored 0-1. After minutes of checking, the goal counted (80th). Shortly before the end, Liverpool’s Diaz came on and headed the equalizer (95′).
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