Diogo Jota Pays Tribute to Teammate Luis Diaz After Opening Goal for Liverpool
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota paid tribute to teammate Luis Diaz after scoring the opening goal in the Reds’ meeting with Nottingham Forest on Sunday. Diaz was not involved in the match due to worrying developments in his native country of Colombia.
The winger’s parents were kidnapped in the town of Barrancas on Saturday night, with his mother subsequently rescued but his father still yet to have been found. Liverpool confirmed the absence of Diaz for their 10th league game of the campaign an hour before kickoff, with Jota starting in his place.
The Portuguese went on to open the scoring in the 31st minute at Anfield, before an emotional tribute to his team-mate. Jota wheeled away towards the Liverpool dugout before holding aloft Diaz’s No. 7 shirt, then being joined in a fitting celebration.
Jurgen Klopp Speaks Out on Luis Diaz Situation
Speaking before kickoff, Klopp explained the decision to grant Diaz compassionate leave, expressing concern for the player and his family after a “really tough night.”
“We had to obviously make a late change because of the private situation involving Luis Diaz,” Klopp told BBC Sport.
“It’s a worrying situation for all of us and it was a pretty tough night. I have never had that before. It’s a new experience I never needed.”
Liverpool Dominant in Victory Over Nottingham Forest
Darwin Nunez went on to put the Reds 2-0 up before half-time at Anfield, with Liverpool dominant and enjoying 74 percent of possession.
The Reds went on to secure a comfortable 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, with Jota’s goal and tribute to his teammate providing a memorable moment in an otherwise difficult situation for Diaz and his family.
Conclusion
The situation involving Luis Diaz and his family is a difficult one, and Diogo Jota’s tribute to his teammate after scoring the opening goal of the match was a touching moment that will not be forgotten any time soon. Liverpool’s victory over Nottingham Forest was a dominant one, and the Reds will be hoping that Diaz is able to return to the squad soon.