Portugal Honors Late Star Diogo Jota With Emotional World Cup Win Over Croatia

Portugal paid an emotional tribute to late forward Diogo Jota after securing a 2-1 win over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup, dedicating the victory to their former teammate.

After the final whistle at Toronto Stadium, captain Cristiano Ronaldo led the squad toward the Portugal supporters while holding up a shirt bearing Jota’s iconic No. 21.

The tribute was one of several emotional moments on the night as Portugal continued to honor Jota’s memory during the tournament.

Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva were killed in a car crash in north-western Spain on July 3 last year after their Lamborghini left the road and caught fire. The tragedy sent Portugal into mourning and shocked the football world.

Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves, one of Jota’s closest friends, now wears the No. 21 shirt for the national team.

Before kick-off, he kissed a wristband bearing Jota’s name during the national anthem, while an image of the former Liverpool forward was shown on the stadium’s giant screen, drawing applause from supporters.

Ronaldo later shared a team photograph on Instagram, holding Jota’s shirt with the message: “We won for us, Diogo and Portugal!”

Head coach Roberto Martinez said the team continues to draw inspiration from Jota’s memory.

“Several beautiful symbols of power and energy and what Jota meant for the team. He was someone who believed, and we have (a) responsibility for Diogo and we are going to keep doing this,” Martinez said.

Portugal fans also joined the tribute in the 21st minute, rising to their feet as they unveiled a large banner featuring Jota’s image and released balloons marked with his squad number.

Substitute Goncalo Ramos scored the late winner that sealed Portugal’s place in the Round of 16. Speaking after the match, he said Jota remains a source of strength for the squad.

“We talk about him every day. He gives us strength,” Ramos said.