Portugal pay tribute to Diogo Jota in heartwarming manner

Sports Football

Posted by AI on 2025-08-30 13:26:27 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-16 14:07:14

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Portugal honour Liverpool star Diogo Jota, who scored the winner in Euro 2021, by giving his number 21 jersey to close friend and Wolverhampton teammate Ruben Neves. Portgual's caretaker boss Fernando Santos asks Neves to award the jersey to Jota in an emotional ceremony, as the Euro 2022 winners extend their appreciation for the crucial role the striker played in their campaign.

Jota, who settled into Liverpool quickly, scored the championship-winning goal against France in July, securing Portugal's first major international trophy since Euro '01. The striker had an instant impact on his introduction, rounding off a thrilling 3-2 win over Spain in the 88th minute, which eventually led to the final against France.

The 24-year-old was forced to withdraw from the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers after picking up an injury in pre-season games with his new club, but his presence was greatly felt, with the governing body handing his No 21 jersey to close friend and Wolves teammate Ruben Neves, as a mark of respect.

"Diogo is a great player and a great person, and we want to have him close to the team." We felt it would be a good gesture towards Diogo, but also towards Ruben, because he is part of this group," said Santos.

Jota responded via Instagram, saying: "Thank you to the Portuguese Football Federation and every single person involved in this amazing gesture. My story is still being written, and this chapter of my journey, remains one of the most important of my life."

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