World Cup 2026: Luis Diaz admits his emotion with Colombia

17.06.26 FT World Cup

Uzbekistan

1

:

Colombia

3

On Thursday night, Luis Diaz shone as both a goalscorer and provider in Colombia’s 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan.

Speaking in the mixed zone, the Bayern Munich forward opened up about his deep emotions following Colombia’s debut at this 2026 World Cup.

"From the warm-up, I was almost in tears. I felt something special was about to happen. So many memories came flooding back because I have fought my whole life to live moments like this. I fulfilled the dream I had as a child with my national team and my country, and it’s even more beautiful to do it with a goal and an assist. (...) When I stepped onto the pitch with James Rodriguez, he told me: 'Enjoy it.' He was almost in tears too. It was the dream of a lifetime since my childhood, and now that it’s come true, it’s an immense joy. I’m proud to be Colombian and to fight for my country," said Luis Diaz.

Colombia’s next match will be against the Democratic Republic of Congo on June 24.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

Related teams and leagues

Uzbekistan

Colombia

World Cup