Ronaldo gets emotional remembering Jota

There was joy in the Portugal camp after the dramatic victory over Croatia. However, an emotional moment was created in the midst of that joy at the end of the match. Because, the Portugal team dedicated this victory to their late teammate Diogo Jota.

Portugal's footballers stood together during the team photo after the match. At that time, captain Cristiano Ronaldo was holding Jota's number 21 jersey. After taking the photo, Ronaldo himself put on the jersey and looked at the sky and raised two fingers in memory of his late teammate.

Ronaldo could not hold back his emotions during the team's lap of honor. He was seen wiping tears in front of the camera. The moment became even more emotional for the Portugal team as this victory came just a day before the first anniversary of Jota's death.

After the match, Ronaldo said that the day was special for them. Because, almost a year ago, at this time, Diogo Jota left the world. According to Ronaldo, Jota is still with the team, and the best way to honor him was to achieve victory.

Gonzalo Ramos scored Portugal's winning goal in the fourth minute of added time. He also said that they remember Jota every day and his memory gives the team strength. This victory and moving forward on the big stage therefore carries special meaning for the team.

Portugal forward Rafael Liao said that despite the emotions, they kept the faith from the beginning. Jota's memory has inspired them and the whole team feels that he is always with them.

On July 3, 2025, Diogo Jota and his brother André were killed in a road accident in the province of Zamora, Spain. Jota was driving himself at the time of the accident. The car lost control and skidded off the road and later caught fire. The two brothers died at the scene.

A year later, on the all-important stage of the World Cup, the Portugal team remembered their beloved teammate with love, respect, and tears.