Portugal’s Euro 2025 opener against Spain was overshadowed by grief as tributes poured in for Diogo Jota, the Liverpool forward who died in a car crash alongside his brother, André Silva, in Spain’s Zamora province early Thursday morning.
Ahead of kick-off in Bern, a poignant minute’s silence was observed, following a stirring rendition of the Portuguese national anthem. A black-and-white image of Jota illuminated the stadium’s big screen, while both teams wore black armbands in his memory. Portugal fans held up placards bearing heartfelt messages as thousands joined in mourning the 27-year-old.
“It was a really tough day to play football, because this life is much more than a game,” said forward Jéssica Silva. “My heart is heavy. There are more important things than playing.”
Head coach Francisco Neto, visibly emotional during the tribute, also paid homage to Jota, recalling his deep connection to the national women’s team. “Diogo followed our team because he loved the country,” Neto said at his post-match press conference. “He always knew our results. He followed the players. This is the culture we have in Portugal.”
Despite unwavering fan support, Portugal suffered a 5-0 defeat to reigning world champions Spain, who began their campaign in dominant fashion.
Neto described the day as one of the hardest in his coaching career. “Today is a really, really sad day. Two young lives lost. It is not a good day,” he said.
Jota is also being mourned in Liverpool, where he was a beloved figure both on and off the pitch.
