Portugal hope to pay tribute to the late Diogo Jota when they face Croatia in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 encounter in Toronto early Friday, as the match coincides with the first anniversary of the former forward’s tragic passing.
The knockout fixture falls exactly one year after Jota and his brother, André Silva, lost their lives in a car crash in Spain on July 3, 2025, giving Roberto Martínez’s side added determination as they pursue a place in the last 16.
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Martínez said the squad is eager to make the tournament a fitting tribute to the former Liverpool F.C. attacker, stressing that Jota’s influence continues to be felt within the camp.
“We want to win the World Cup for him,” the Portugal coach said, describing Jota as “our light” and revealing that the late forward still occupies a symbolic “plus one” place in the team’s World Cup squad.
The team’s emotional tribute has been evident throughout the competition. Portugal players, led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo, have worn commemorative wristbands bearing Jota’s name, while moments of remembrance have taken place before each of their World Cup matches.
Midfielder Rúben Neves, one of Jota’s closest friends, said the late striker continues to motivate the players daily, adding that he still sends messages to Jota through a family WhatsApp group.
The Portugal squad has also kept Jota’s parents close to their hearts after they attended the team’s opening World Cup match, where a moving tribute was held in memory of both brothers.
Martínez said the anniversary should be remembered not only with grief but also by celebrating Jota’s life, legacy, and the values he embodied while representing Portugal.
A victory over Croatia would secure Portugal a place in the Round of 16 and keep alive their ambition of honouring Jota with the deep World Cup run they believe he would have cherished most.
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