Jota’s Children Lead Emotional Tribute at Anfield
Liverpool and Wolves came together in a deeply emotional tribute to Diogo Jota at Anfield, as the two clubs met for the first time since the forward’s tragic death.
The Portugal international, aged 28, lost his life in a car accident in Spain in July, alongside his younger brother André Silva, who was 25. Jota had strong ties to both clubs, having joined Liverpool in 2020 after three highly successful seasons with Wolves.
Jota’s Family Takes Centre Stage Before Kick-Off
Before Saturday’s Premier League match, Jota’s sons Dinis and Duarte, two of his three children, walked onto the pitch alongside the official matchday mascots. They later led the Liverpool players out of the tunnel, ahead of captain Virgil van Dijk, in a powerful moment of remembrance.
Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, was also present in the stands, witnessing the outpouring of respect and love shown to her late husband.
In the Kop End, a large banner reading “Diogo Jota, forever in our hearts” was displayed before kick-off. Wolves supporters joined in the tribute, chanting “Diogo, Diogo, Diogo” from the away end, before the entire stadium rose to applaud in the 20th minute — a reference to Jota’s iconic squad number.
On-Field Tribute and Goal Dedication
Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch opened the scoring and dedicated his goal to Jota by recreating the Portuguese forward’s famous shark-style celebration, a gesture that drew emotional applause from all sides of the stadium.
A day earlier, Wolves players and staff laid wreaths outside Anfield in memory of their former teammate. Jota joined Wolves on loan from Atlético Madrid in 2017 and went on to score 44 goals in 131 appearances before securing a permanent move.
A Legacy at Liverpool and Wolves
During his time at Liverpool, Jota scored 65 goals in 182 appearances, playing a key role in the club’s FA Cup and EFL Cup triumphs in 2022, as well as their Premier League title win last season. Following his death, Liverpool retired his iconic No. 20 shirt in his honour.
In programme notes ahead of Liverpool’s final home game of 2025, head coach Arne Slot spoke movingly about Jota’s family and the lasting impact of the player.
“Reflecting on everything that has happened over the last 12 months ignites a rollercoaster of emotions,” Slot wrote.
“I can only hope that the love and affection Diogo continues to generate brings his family some solace.”
A Moment That United Football
The tribute at Anfield highlighted not only Jota’s achievements on the pitch but also the profound respect he earned as a teammate, professional, and family man. For one afternoon, football stood still as two clubs and thousands of fans honoured a player who will never be forgotten.
