"He didn’t shine, he looked defeated" - Colombia media slams Liverpool star Luis Diaz's performance against Argentina
Colombian media has criticized Liverpool winger Luis Diaz after he struggled to make an impact in their 2-1 win against Argentina last night (Tuesday, September 10). Despite Diaz's struggles, Colombia were able to seal all three points in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Yerson Mosquera (25') and James Rodriguez (60' (P)) scored for the hosts, while Nicolas Gonzalez (60') netted a consolation goal for Argentina in Lionel Messi's absence.
Even though Diaz played all 90 minutes down the left flank, the Liverpool star was unable to produce the goods. El Tiempo gave him a player rating of just five out of 10 for his efforts, stating (via The Boot Room):
“He didn’t shine, he looked defeated, he couldn’t do even one individual [contribution]. Five points.”
As per FotMob, Diaz was given a rating of just 6.5. The 27-year-old failed to register a single shot on goal, didn't have a goal contribution, created zero chances, and lost nine duels.
Diaz will be hoping to put the Argentina clash behind him when he lines up for Liverpool in their next fixture against Nottingham Forest (September 14). He has made a bright start to the season for the Reds, scoring three goals and providing one assist in three Premier League appearances.
"It doesn’t get any better" - Rafael van der Vaart left stunned by what Liverpool star did during Germany draw
Former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart was left stunned by Ryan Gravenberch's exquisite long-range pass during their 2-2 draw against Germany in their 2024 Nations League fixture (September 10).
Gravenberch has been a star reborn under new Liverpool manager Arne Slot this season. The latter has deployed the 22-year-old as a No. 6, a move which seems to be bringing the best out of the Dutchman.
This was seen in the Netherlands' clash against Germany, with Gravenberch assisting Tijani Reijnders for their opener in the second minute. However, the Liverpool midfielder's most notable moment came in the 20th minute, when he unleashed a brilliant across-the-pitch first-time pass from his own half, into the path of Xavi Simons.
Unfortunately, the latter was unable to finish the chance, but Van der Vaart was still impressed by the pass. He told Voetbal International (via Rousing the Kop):
“He was the star player. When he gave that ball to Xavi Simons, I wanted to go home with that pass, it doesn’t get any better. This is the most difficult ball in football, it was perfectly tailored.”
Gravenberch looked in complete control in midfield against Germany, providing one assist, creating two chances, winning both of his attempted tackles, six duels, and making four recoveries.