Liverpool attacker Luis Diaz has been absolutely sensational for Jurgen Klopp’s side since arriving at Anfield in January.
Not only has the Colombia international been playing well, but he’s dragged the Reds to a Champions League final.
Liverpool led Villarreal 2-0 following the semi-final first leg, but it very nearly went so wrong in the second leg.
Boulaye Dia put the hosts ahead after just three minutes at El Madrigal, rifling home from Etienne Capoue’s cutback.
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Then, four minutes before the break, Liverpool conceded again.
Capoue crossed from the right and Francis Coquelin rose high above Trent Alexander-Arnold to level the tie with a header.
Jurgen Klopp took Diogo Jota off and brought Diaz on at half time, and it proved an inspired decision.
Liverpool struck back just after the hour, when Fabinho’s effort somehow found its way past Geronimo Tulli.
Then, in the 67th minute, Diaz equalised for the Reds.
The £56,000-a-week star headed home through Tulli’s legs from Alexander-Arnold’s cross.
“The two-goal cushion has been restored and Diaz has made such a difference,” former Reds forward Neil Mellor said on Sky Sports.
“He was nowhere near being offside. It was a lovely inswinging cross from Trent.
“It’s another goal through the goalkeeper’s legs. It’s all to do for Villarreal again.”
And then, in the 74th minute, Liverpool went in front in the game and took their aggregate lead to 5-2.
Naby Keita released Sadio Mane, who duly took the ball around the onrushing Rulli.
He then beat Juan Foyth’s challenge and duly rolled the ball into the empty net.
Liverpool will now contest the Champions League final in Paris on May 28.
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