Diogo Jota Farewell Draws Portugal’s Football Family

Diogo Jota was remembered with raw emotion on Friday as Gondomar’s Chapel of the Resurrection became a sea of red scarves, Portugal flags and white lilies. The Liverpool forward and his younger brother, André Silva, were honoured by hundreds of supporters who queued for hours to lay flowers and jerseys beneath a flickering candlelit portrait.

Diogo Jota Honoured in Gondomar

Former Portugal teammates Ricardo Horta, João Moutinho and Rúben Neves arrived quietly, embracing family members before signing the condolence book. Inside, a choir sang “A Portuguesa”, amplifying the sense of national loss. Outside, local youth teams wearing Jota’s No. 20 shirt formed a guard of honour, while Liverpool scarves draped the chapel railings in a poignant nod to the striker’s Premier League exploits.

Presidential Tribute

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa paid his respects, praising Jota’s “humility, work ethic and unifying spirit that transcended rivalries.” His appearance underscored how the 27-year-old, who earned 34 caps and scored 12 goals for Portugal, had become a symbol of national pride.

Global Mourning

Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp sent a wreath with the message, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” while Anfield’s Kop lit up social media with candle emojis and clips of Jota’s defining goals. Messages flowed from Wolves, Porto and even rival Premier League clubs, a testament to his universal respect.

Next Steps for Club and Country

Liverpool confirmed players will wear black armbands in their upcoming friendly against Preston North End. The Portuguese Football Federation is planning a minute’s silence before the Women’s Euro qualifier versus Italy.

Opinion

In an era often clouded by tribalism, the unity around Diogo Jota’s farewell is a reminder that football’s deepest power lies in shared humanity, not silverware.