Portugal – Ronaldo Leads Emotional Jota Tribute After Croatia World Cup Victory
Portugal – Portugal marked a deeply emotional World Cup victory over Croatia by paying tribute to former international Diogo Jota, exactly one year after the forward and his brother Andre Silva died in a car accident in Spain.
Cristiano Ronaldo played a central role in Portugal’s 2-1 round-of-32 win in Toronto on Friday, scoring the opening goal from the penalty spot. However, the final whistle brought a moment far more personal for the Portuguese squad. Ronaldo changed into Jota’s No. 21 Portugal shirt, looked toward the sky and appeared overcome with emotion as teammates and supporters reflected on the loss.
Ronaldo reflects on a difficult anniversary
Speaking after the match, Ronaldo said the team had been aware of the significance of the date before taking the field. He described the occasion as an important and emotional moment for the entire group.
“We knew it before the game, it was such a special moment,” Ronaldo told Fox. “We spoke today as a group about the coincidence of life. It is unbelievable. I was amazed because today means a lot to us, not only because we won the game but also because of the way it happened.”
Ronaldo later told Sport TV that the players felt Jota’s presence during the match and believed a victory was the most fitting way to remember their former teammate.
“We know he is present with us and it only made sense to win today to honour him in the best way,” he said.
Portugal advance after hard-fought Croatia contest
Portugal’s win over Croatia secured their place in the next stage of the World Cup, but the result carried added meaning because of the anniversary. The squad entered the match with memories of Jota at the forefront, while the supporters in Toronto also acknowledged the former forward’s contribution to the national side.
Jota made 49 appearances for Portugal and scored 14 goals during his international career. Known for his movement, finishing ability and work rate, he became an important part of the squad during a successful period for the national team.
His death on July 3 last year shocked Portuguese football. Jota and his younger brother Andre Silva, who was 25, died in a road accident in western Spain. Silva was also a professional footballer and played for Portuguese second-tier club Penafiel.
National team keeps Jota’s number in the squad
Portugal decided to preserve Jota’s connection with the national team in the weeks following his death. His No. 21 shirt was passed to Ruben Neves, one of Jota’s close friends and former teammates.
The gesture ensured that Jota’s number remained part of the Portugal setup while also recognising the close bond he shared with Neves. Friday’s tribute showed that the former forward continues to hold a special place within the squad.
Jota had been part of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League-winning teams in 2019 and 2025. In the most recent triumph, Portugal defeated Spain in the final, with Jota celebrating the title alongside his teammates only weeks before his death.
Spanish police detailed circumstances of crash
Spanish police said Jota’s vehicle left the road while attempting to overtake another car. Authorities reported that a tyre blowout occurred before the vehicle caught fire.
Both Jota and Andre Silva died at the scene, according to police information released after the accident. The tragedy brought tributes from across football, with clubs, players and supporters remembering the brothers.
Portugal’s victory over Croatia will be remembered for its World Cup importance, but for Ronaldo and his teammates, it was also a chance to honour a colleague whose absence is still strongly felt.