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It’s a continuation of a remarkable run of form for the Bayern Munich winger, who scored 26 goals in all competitions in his first season in Germany, winning the Bundesliga title and a German Cup.

That came after helping Liverpool win the Premier League title in 2024-25 with 13 goals. The fact the English side’s title defence collapsed so soon perhaps highlights the gap Diaz left, with his high pressing and urgency as key as his trickery and clinical finishing.

“It was a very special moment; I felt an incredible sensation when I went out to warm up,” Diaz told reporters on Wednesday. “I worked and fought for this. I am living out my childhood dream of playing in a World Cup with my national team, and it’s even better to have contributed a goal and an assist.”

Rodriguez made a name for himself at in 2014 by steering Colombia to the quarter-finals and winning the Golden Boot with six goals. Diaz is already a well-known quantity but Colombia fans will be hoping their beloved ‘Lucho’ can inspire them to go even further this year.