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Emotional tribute to Diogo Jota during Portugal's national anthem
Teams 4 July 2026

Emotional tribute to Diogo Jota during Portugal's national anthem

Diogo Jota was honored during Portugal's national anthem on the first anniversary of his tragic death. A photo of the former international appeared on the big screen at BMO Field, prompting an emotional response from players and supporters.

A moving tribute was given to Diogo Jota during Portugal's national anthem ahead of their World Cup knockout match against Croatia. This took place on the first anniversary of his tragic death. An image of Jota, the former Portugal international, appeared on the big screen at Toronto's BMO Field, prompting loud applause at the end of the national anthem "A Portuguesa".

Cristiano Ronaldo, who has made 32 appearances for the national team alongside Jota, visibly showed emotion as the cameras focused on him. Jota, who died in a car accident at the age of 28 along with his brother Andre Silva (25), left a huge impact on the sport of football. Jota's death caused a great outpouring of grief within the football family.

![Image](https://s.yimg.com/lo/mysterio/api/e410ff77ba1baca1dd7a1f7a5382b4e751f0b683354f79f7e4c5679c40bd3b4d/lightyear_networkapi/resizefil l_w1200;quality_80;format_webp/https:%2F%2Fmedia.zenfs.com%2Fen%2Fthe_independent_us_sports_articles_270%2Fa4e8c5ba811edc337d3664faeeb8be4e)

The Portugal national team, as well as Jota's former club Liverpool, have kept him as an active member in their squads. Liverpool have retired his number 20 shirt, while Roberto Martinez has named him as an honorary player in the World Cup squad. “Diogo's dream is still alive with us and he sets the standard,” Martinez said ahead of the match against Croatia. "He is the light for the direction of this group. Every day is difficult. During training there are always moments when Diogo comes back to our memories. This birthday makes this match Diogo Jota's match. Diogo will always be with us."

Portugal carried an emotional memory of Jota into the World Cup, with each player receiving a bracelet from the Portuguese Prime Minister with their own name and that of their late teammate. Liverpool have also honored Jota on the first anniversary of his death by installing a permanent memorial, 'Forever 20', at Anfield in memory of him and his brother Andre Silva. "'Forever 20' will serve as a permanent symbol of love, unity and memory, and a place where everyone can reflect, remember and pay their respects," a club statement said.


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