Luis Díaz relives emotional World Cup dream: “I was close to crying, and memories from the past came back to me”

Luis Fernando Díaz, Colombia’s standout player of recent years, experienced another landmark moment in his career on Wednesday. The winger made his World Cup debut and did so in spectacular fashion, scoring a goal and providing an assist for Daniel Muñoz in Colombia’s 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan.

After Colombia’s Group K win at Estadio Ciudad de México, Díaz spoke to reporters about his emotions following the match and revealed what went through his mind as he stepped onto the field for his first World Cup appearance. His second-half goal capped a memorable night for the native of La Guajira.

Reflecting on the victory, Díaz said: “I’m very grateful to God for giving me moments like these. I’m very happy with the result, which is what we came here for. It’s very important to win this first game and be in first place. We controlled the first half, then they improved. Now we have to correct what wasn’t so good, take it step by step, and keep our feet on the ground.”

Speaking about the experience of playing in a World Cup, he added: “It was a very special moment for me. I was already feeling incredible emotions before walking onto the field. I was close to crying, and memories from the past came back to me. I fought hard to be here, and today I’m fulfilling a childhood dream by playing in a World Cup for my country. I have to recognize what the team did because none of this would be possible without them.”

On the importance of opening the tournament with a win, Díaz was clear: “The important thing today was winning. We had to win no matter what. Taking the three points was crucial because it was a key game for us.”

Colombia will play its next World Cup game against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on June 23 in Guadalajara. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET.

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