Luis Diaz’s tumultuous week took a positive turn as he came off the bench to secure a late equalizer for Liverpool, preventing a shocking defeat against Luton in a 1-1 draw. The match appeared to be heading towards a surprising victory for Luton when substitute Tahith Chong capitalized on a brilliant break to score with just 10 minutes left.
In their first league visit to Kenilworth Road in over three decades, Liverpool struggled to find their usual rhythm, contending with a spirited Luton side that defended resolutely and waited for their opportunity. Chong’s goal seemed to be the decider until Diaz, who had been absent from the team due to a personal crisis in Colombia, connected with Harvey Elliott’s cross in the dying moments of added time to deny Luton a historic win. Diaz celebrated by revealing a message on his shirt, reading ‘libertad para papa’ or ‘freedom for my father.’
Liverpool aimed to secure a victory that would propel them to second place in the table. However, the first half was a test of their patience as Luton executed a well-organized plan to thwart their attacks. Darwin Nunez tested Luton’s goalkeeper, Thomas Kaminski, with a long-range effort, and Mohamed Salah had a chance that sailed over the bar.
In the second half, it became increasingly evident that a single goal could determine the outcome, and Luton remained a credible threat. Despite Liverpool’s growing pressure, Luton’s defense held firm. The game’s best chance fell to Salah, who failed to capitalize on an excellent opportunity.
With just 10 minutes left, Luton’s moment arrived. Ross Barkley initiated a counter-attack, and Issa Kabore provided a perfect cross for Chong to calmly slot the ball past Alisson, sending the Kenilworth Road crowd into a frenzy.
However, Liverpool managed to snatch an equalizer in stoppage time. Harvey Elliott delivered an excellent cross into the box, and Diaz’s header rescued his team from an unexpected defeat.
