Following news of the tragic deaths of Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, the Portuguese women`s national team honored them before their UEFA Women`s Euro group stage opener against Spain on Thursday. The somber news of Jota and his brother`s passing in a car crash deeply affected the football world, prompting a tribute. The team wore black armbands for the match as a mark of respect. Additionally, a minute`s silence was scheduled to be observed before all UEFA Women`s Euro matches held on Thursday and Friday in their memory.
Stadium Reactions
Inside Stadium Wankdorf, a banner displaying “Thanks for everything” was prominently visible as a tribute to the brothers. Fans also displayed numerous other personal tributes, including signs, jerseys, and pictures, during the observed moment of silence. The atmosphere before the match was profoundly somber as the football community collectively mourned.
Portuguese FA Statement
In a statement, the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proenca, conveyed the federation`s deep sorrow: “The Portuguese Football Federation and the entire Portuguese football community are devastated by the deaths of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva, which occurred in Spain this morning.”
Proenca further added, “Beyond his remarkable talent as an exceptional player, having earned nearly 50 caps for the national team, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary individual. He was respected by all teammates and opponents alike, known for his contagious joy and serving as a role model within his community. On behalf of myself and the Portuguese Football Federation, I extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and Andre Silva, as well as to Liverpool FC and FC Penafiel, the clubs where the players were affiliated, respectively. We have tragically lost two champions. Their passing constitutes an irreparable loss for Portuguese football, and we are committed to doing everything possible to honor their legacy daily.”
Diogo Jota`s career achievements with Portugal included winning the UEFA Nations League title on two occasions. He represented the senior national team 49 times, scoring 14 goals and providing 12 assists.
