DIOGO JOTA’S BOYS LEAD EMOTIONAL ANFIELD TRIBUTE

In a deeply touching scene at Anfield on Saturday, fans, players and family came together to honour the memory of Diogo Jota in a way that was uplifting yet poignant.

Ahead of the Premier League clash between Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers, the first time his two former clubs had faced off since his tragic passing in July, Jota’s young sons Dinis and Duarte walked out onto the pitch as matchday mascots, bringing smiles and tears in equal measure.

As the two little boys, wearing shirts with their dad’s retired No. 20, joined other mascots down the tunnel and into the stadium, fans from both sides applauded them warmly.

Their mother, Rute Cardoso, watched proudly from the sidelines, sharing quiet moments with past teammates and coaches.

Supporters honoured Jota throughout the afternoon, with chants of his name echoing around the ground and a banner reading “Diogo Jota, forever in our hearts” hoisted high in the Kop.

Both sets of fans participated in a moving minute of recognition around the 20th minute before the teams kicked off,  a nod to his iconic shirt number.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot described the tribute as “special” and praised supporters for their respectful show of love. He reflected on the emotional rollercoaster of the past year and admitted it was especially poignant for Jota’s family, who were marking their first Christmas without him.

Image credit: Sky News