Colombian star shines as Liverpool keep Champions League streak alive, spoiling Xabi Alonso’s Anfield return
Luis Diaz delivered a stunning hat-trick to lead Liverpool to a commanding 4-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League, leaving former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso’s Anfield homecoming in disappointment. Cody Gakpo also scored, keeping Liverpool’s perfect Champions League record intact and placing them firmly at the top of their group.
In the first half, Bayer Leverkusen looked resilient under Alonso’s guidance, limiting Liverpool’s chances and keeping the game level. But Liverpool’s intensity surged after the break, with Diaz breaking through in the 61st minute. Curtis Jones set up the opener with a brilliant pass, allowing Diaz to finish with a deft chip. Just two minutes later, Gakpo powered in a header from Mo Salah’s pinpoint cross, with VAR confirming his onside position.
As the match neared its close, Diaz scored his second, converting another assist from Salah before sealing his hat-trick in stoppage time with a simple tap-in. The 4-0 victory underscored Liverpool’s dominance and brought back memories of classic European nights at Anfield, with Alonso witnessing firsthand the formidable strength of his former club.
The victory cements Liverpool’s top spot in the Champions League group with four straight wins, while Leverkusen, now five points back, took their first loss in the competition. Liverpool’s form under manager Arne Slot has Kopites excited, as they continue their charge in both the Premier League and Champions League, embodying the very words of Alonso, who had called them “the best team in Europe.”
Player of the Match
Luis Diaz (Liverpool) – Diaz’s first hat-trick for Liverpool showcased his attacking brilliance, capped off by a delicate chip, powerful strikes, and a tenacious display that kept Anfield on its feet.
Player Ratings
Liverpool: Kelleher 8, Alexander-Arnold 7, Konate 8, Van Dijk 8, Tsimikas 7, Jones 8, Gravenberch 8, Mac Allister 7, Salah 8, Gakpo 8, Diaz 9*.
Substitutes: Szoboszlai 7, Nunez n/a, Robertson n/a, Bradley n/a, Quansah n/a.
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