UCL: Diaz bags hat-trick as Liverpool thrash Alonso’s Leverkusen 4-0

Liverpool handed Bayer Leverkusen a 4-0 defeat at Anfield, marking a bitter return for Bayer Leverkusen manager and former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso.

A tense, scoreless first half gave way to a dominant second-half display from Liverpool, led by Luis Diaz, who secured a hat-trick.

The first half saw both teams struggle to create clear chances, with the highlight being Jeremie Frimpong’s disallowed goal for handball.

Despite Liverpool’s storied presence at Anfield, Leverkusen managed to control possession but struggled to capitalize on their dominance.

The game shifted dramatically after the break as Liverpool intensified their attack.

Diaz broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, followed shortly by Cody Gakpo’s header to make it 2-0.

From there, Leverkusen appeared deflated, with defensive lapses against Liverpool’s front line.

Diaz completed his hat-trick with two late goals, sealing a comprehensive victory for the hosts.