Liverpool winger Luis Diaz has scored a stoppage time equaliser for the Reds in their 1-1 draw against Luton – and unveiled a tribute to his father during his celebration.
The Colombian rose highest to nod the ball over goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski from close range in the 95th minute.
The goal ensured Liverpool took a point away from Kenilworth Road, with Jurgen Klopp’s side having been facing a shock defeat after Tahith Chong’s second half opener.
Diaz was back in the Liverpool squad for the clash for the first time since his father and mother were kidnapped back in Colombia.
His mother was released, but authorities are still searching for his father.
And after scoring, Diaz unveiled a shirt in tribute to his father which read: “Libertad Para Papa” – translated in English as ‘Freedom for Dad’.
Can you BELIEVE it?!
Luis Diaz comes off the bench and equalises for Liverpool in the 95th minute! 💪🔴 pic.twitter.com/Vd2KnMaV58
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 5, 2023
On Thursday, the Colombian government stated that Diaz’s parents were kidnapped by a guerrilla group called the National Liberation Army (ELN).
Earlier in the week, Diaz had called on the captors to free his father.
As perAFP, the head of the ELN group conceded that the ‘retention’ of Diaz’s father by the group was a ‘mistake’, and that he will be released soon.
Speaking ahead of the Luton match, manager Jurgen Klopp explained why the 26-year-old was back in the squad: “It is still emotional but he decided three days ago that he wanted to train again.
“The football pitch is a safe place for the boys and somewhere we he can, for a few minutes at least, forget about what is going on.
“All the signs he is getting are positive. Negotiations are ongoing but they are positive and that is why he wanted to be part of the team. He trained well and he can come on, there is no issue with that side of things, that is why he is here.”