Portugal takes memory of Diogo Jota to decisive game in the World Cup

When Portugal takes the field to face Croatia in the round of 32 of the World Cup, this Thursday (2), in Toronto, the confrontation will already take place on July 3 on Portuguese soil.

For the Portuguese, the date carries a meaning that goes far beyond football. Exactly one year will have passed since the death of Diogo Jota, a striker for the national team and Liverpool, whose talent, eye for goal and dedication to his country made him one of the country's most beloved players.

Jota, 28, and his brother, André Silva, died in a car accident in northwest Spain, when the Lamborghini they were in left the road and caught fire.

The anniversary of the tragedy will certainly awaken strong emotions among teammates, fans and members of the coaching staff, who have spent the last month ensuring that his memory remains present throughout Portugal's campaign, with tributes integrated into the team's World Cup trajectory.

Roberto Martínez, coach of the Portuguese national team, who described Jota as "our light", named him an honorary member of the delegation during the competition.

Rúben Neves, Jota's great friend and the team's midfielder, wears the number 21 shirt, worn by the striker. The Prime Minister of Portugal, Luís Montenegro, presented the players with bracelets emblazoned with Jota's name.

His parents, Isabel and Joaquim Silva, wiped away tears in the stands during an emotional tribute before Portugal's opening match in the World Cup, against the Democratic Republic of Congo, in Houston.

"There are many motivations to win the match, and there is also this additional factor, this very special day. We have all the motivation: for our families, for Diogo Jota, for the whole country, for all of Portugal", said midfielder Vitinha last Wednesday (1st).

Robertson gets emotional
The loss of Jota was also felt in the Scotland team. Captain Andy Robertson revealed that, upon securing the team's qualification for the World Cup in November, his thoughts immediately turned to his former Liverpool teammate and great friend.

When the tournament started, Jota's widow, Rute Cardoso, wrote a message to Robertson.

"When you enter the field, Diogo will be with you in your thoughts, in your steps and in your heart. Thank you for not forgetting him. Thank you for taking him with you. Thank you for transforming the pain of loss into strength and into something so beautiful," she wrote.

Thursday's departure time adds even more excitement to the moment. By the time the ball rolls in Toronto, the clock will have already passed midnight in Portugal, marking the anniversary of an event that shocked the country and shook the world of football.

For many players in the Portuguese national team, Jota was more than a teammate. He was part of a generation that helped keep Portugal among the powerhouses of football, being a trusted figure in the dressing room and scoring goals and decisive performances.

Jota scored 14 goals in 49 matches for the country and, after missing the 2018 World Cup because of a calf injury, he would most likely be part of the squad competing in the tournament in North America this year.

"Diogo Jota was a player much loved by the Portuguese people", said Miguel De Silva, Portuguese-Canadian and owner of the sports bar Amigos da Dundas, located in the Little Portugal neighborhood, in Toronto. "I think he will continue to give something to the Portuguese players. One more reason to win the match."

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Source: CNN