Portugal witnessed a deeply moving night as the country came together to honor the late Liverpool star Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in July alongside his brother in a car accident in Zamora, Spain.
What a sad picture 💔 pic.twitter.com/fRcd6QbTYr
— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) September 2, 2025
At the national sports complex, Jota’s family received the “Athlete of Merit” medal, a symbolic recognition of his remarkable career and lasting legacy. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, and Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença, alongside Jota’s family.
Cristiano Ronaldo consoling Diogo Jota's father ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Ws8wWbl0qu
— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) September 2, 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo with the President of Portugal 🥶🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/vH8oqHvFfY
— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) September 2, 2025
The Portuguese Football Federation played an emotional tribute video, showcasing Jota’s training moments and memorable goals for the national team. His close friend Rúben Neves also shared heartfelt memories, leaving the audience visibly touched.
🚨📲 Cristiano Ronaldo on instagram: pic.twitter.com/3AJf6AG1zv
— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) September 2, 2025
Among those most affected was Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Portugal and Al-Nassr, who appeared overcome with emotion as Jota’s family was honored—holding back tears in front of the packed hall.
The Portugal team attended a tribute ceremony for Diogo Jota, André Silva and Jorge Costa, where Cristiano presented the Nations League trophy ❤️🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/gABUsk1zYc
— 433 (@433) September 2, 2025
In a symbolic gesture to keep Jota’s spirit alive within the team, head coach Roberto Martínez confirmed that the No. 21 shirt will now be worn by Rúben Neves during the World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign.
Cristiano Ronaldo is at the tribute ceremony for Diogo Jota and Jorge Cost🕊️🤍😢 pic.twitter.com/4lUNnwhAyl
— Dustin Kretschmer (@DustinKretschm) September 2, 2025
The tribute coincided with Portugal’s training camp ahead of matches against Armenia and Hungary this month, offering players and officials a moment to unite in remembrance of one of the nation’s most talented modern footballers.
Follow the latest news on Google News
