Luis Díaz showcased his exceptional ability as a central striker during Liverpool’s commanding 6-3 victory over Tottenham, with captain Virgil van Dijk shedding light on how the Colombian forward poses a unique challenge to defenders.
Traditionally, Díaz has not been deployed as a No. 9. Before this season, he had only played the role sparingly — four times for Junior FC, once for Colombia, and briefly under Jürgen Klopp. However, circumstances have prompted a shift. With Diogo Jota sidelined for significant stretches and Darwin Núñez battling inconsistency, Liverpool’s head coach, Arne Slot, has increasingly relied on Díaz to lead the line.
This adjustment has paid off handsomely. In just four starts as a central striker this season, Díaz has netted an impressive five goals, including a Champions League hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen. His most recent outing as a No. 9 came against Tottenham, where he delivered a masterful performance, scoring twice and playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s comprehensive win.
Van Dijk’s insight: A dynamic threat
Following the match, Virgil van Dijk spoke to reporters, including Liverpool Echo’s Paul Gorst, to elaborate on Díaz’s impact. The Dutch defender highlighted how Díaz’s dynamic style makes him an unpredictable and difficult opponent.
“If you watched the game closely, you’d see he wasn’t playing as a traditional No. 9,” Van Dijk explained. “He operated centrally but often dropped into midfield as well. His movement creates a lot of problems for defenders because he’s not always directly marked by one opponent. That level of unpredictability makes it hard to defend against.”
Van Dijk praised Díaz for his intelligence and adaptability, which were on full display during the match. The forward’s off-the-ball movement and versatility allow him to thrive not just as a striker but as a roving attacking threat who destabilizes defensive structures.
Díaz’s goals highlight his versatility
Díaz’s first goal of the game perfectly demonstrated his awareness and positioning. Capitalizing on a well-timed run between Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai, he met Trent Alexander-Arnold’s exquisite cross with a precise header to open the scoring. His second goal, which sealed Liverpool’s sixth, was the result of a fluid team move, emphasizing his ability to finish chances generated from intricate build-up play.
Notably, Díaz’s pace and agility also contributed to Liverpool’s counterattacking dominance. Of the team’s six goals, three were created on the break, with Díaz’s sharp movements and quick decision-making instrumental in exploiting Tottenham’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Van Dijk highlighted this aspect of Liverpool’s performance, noting, “It wasn’t just about counterattacks. We played with purpose, moving the ball across the pitch and finding the right spaces. Tottenham likes to keep a high defensive line near the box, so timing runs is crucial. Lucho’s first goal is a perfect example of how that strategy worked.”
A tactical shift that benefits Liverpool
Liverpool’s emphatic victory also underlined how Slot’s tactical tweak has added a new dimension to their attack. While Núñez brings physicality and raw energy to the No. 9 role, Díaz offers a more multifaceted approach. His ability to drop deep, link up with midfielders, and contribute to possession play adds fluidity to Liverpool’s offense.
Díaz’s performances in the central role have largely come while Núñez has been available but left on the bench. This suggests that, for certain games, Slot prefers Díaz’s well-rounded skill set to lead the line.
The head coach’s faith in Díaz has been justified. By blending creativity, precision, and work rate, Díaz has emerged as a key figure in Liverpool’s attacking strategy. Van Dijk summed it up perfectly: “Lucho was outstanding today, and that’s exactly what we need.”
Maintaining Momentum
While Díaz’s performance stole the headlines, Liverpool’s overall display was equally commendable. For much of the match, the Reds were in control, dictating play with intelligent ball movement and exploiting Tottenham’s weaknesses.
“We played really well for about 70 minutes,” Van Dijk noted. “Switching the ball from side to side, attacking the right spaces, and staying disciplined made the difference. Taking three points before Christmas is always a good feeling.”
As Liverpool heads into the festive period, Díaz’s resurgence as a central striker offers a timely boost. The Colombian’s ability to adapt to different roles within the team gives Slot valuable flexibility in his tactical approach. Moreover, his recent performances have set a benchmark for others, including Núñez, who will now need to raise their game to compete for the starting spot.
A warning to competitors
Díaz’s effectiveness as a “nine-and-a-half” — a hybrid forward who operates between traditional positions — signals a shift in how Liverpool approaches the No. 9 role. For opposition defenders, his combination of movement, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess represents a nightmare scenario.
For Liverpool, however, it’s exactly what they need as they chase success on multiple fronts this season. Díaz’s transformation into a central striker may have been born out of necessity, but it has quickly become a game-changer for the team.
With such performances, Díaz is not just filling a gap — he’s redefining how Liverpool’s attack operates. If he continues on this trajectory, his role as a central figure in Klopp’s plans will only grow stronger, giving the Reds a potent weapon as they push for silverware.
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