Luis Díaz inspires Colombia to emotional win over Brazil

On an emotional night, Luis Diaz spurred Colombia to win over Brazil as his father watched from the stands after being rescued by his kidnappers. The Liverpool attacker scored twice in five second-half minutes to cap a stunning Colombia comeback in Barranquilla’s 2026 World Cup qualifier, reports Football Scores Today.

After militants took him hostage for 12 days, he was reunited with his father, Luis Manuel Diaz, on Tuesday. Teammates and staff greeted Diaz after scoring his first goal. After his 75th-minute equaliser, the 26-year-old pointed to the crowd, and television cameras showed his teary-eyed father, wearing a Colombia shirt, cheering with his arms up.

Diaz admitted to having “hard moments” in recent weeks but said, “Life makes you strong and brave, and I think football, and not just football, but life, does that.” I’m grateful to my teammates and the coaching staff for always being there for me. And I dedicate this triumph to those who earned it,” he continued.

Brazil took the lead in the fourth minute thanks to Arsenal striker Gabriel Martinelli before Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. was injured late in the first half. However, Diaz’s quick-fire double won a significant win for Colombia, lifting them above their opponents and up to third in the South American standings.