Liverpool winger Luis Diaz delivered a remarkable performance for Colombia, scoring two crucial headers in a 2-1 victory over Brazil. The match held particular significance as it unfolded in front of Luis Diaz’s emotional father, Luis Manuel Diaz, who had recently experienced a harrowing kidnapping ordeal.

Both of Luis Diaz’s parents were initially kidnapped in Colombia, but while his mother was promptly released, Luis Manuel Diaz endured captivity for 12 days with a guerrilla group. Despite the challenging circumstances, he attended the World Cup qualifier in Barranquilla to support his son.

The match saw Luis Diaz securing victory for Colombia with headers in the 75th and 79th minutes, turning the tide after Brazil’s early goal by Gabriel Martinelli. The emotional scenes in the stands captured Luis Manuel Diaz visibly moved and celebrating alongside his wife, Cilenis Marulanda. His tears of joy and pride reflected the family’s resilience in the face of adversity.

Wearing a Colombia shirt and a necklace, Luis Manuel Diaz’s emotions overflowed as he fell on top of others amid the euphoria of his son’s success. The triumphant moment became a powerful symbol of strength and unity for the Diaz family. After the match, Luis Diaz expressed gratitude, stating, “I thank God. He makes it all possible,” acknowledging the significance of the victory in the context of their recent challenges.

“We have always experienced tough moments, but life makes you strong and brave. That is football and that is life. We deserved this victory.”

Despite defeat, Brazil goalkeeper Allisson hailed his Liverpool team-mate after the match. “He is a friend, he suffered a lot these days,” the Reds goalkeeper said.

“This is beyond football. He deserves it.”

Next up for Diaz and Colombia is a trip to Paraguay on Tuesday, while Brazil are at home to Argentina in a crunch clash that same night.