The Spain vs. Portugal match at the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 in Bern, Switzerland, on July 3, 2025, took on a somber tone as tributes were paid to Portuguese international Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car crash along with his brother, André Silva.
UEFA announced that a minute's silence would be observed at all Women's Euro 2025 matches on Thursday and Friday in memory of Jota and his brother. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) had requested the tribute before their team's match against Spain. The Portugal players also wore black armbands as a sign of respect.
Jota, a Liverpool FC forward, was killed in a car crash in Spain. Initial reports suggest that a tyre blew out on the Lamborghini he was driving while overtaking, causing the car to crash and burst into flames. He was 28 years old.
The news of Jota's death sent shockwaves through the football world, with tributes pouring in from fellow players, clubs, and fans. Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota's Portugal teammate, expressed his disbelief and heartbreak on Instagram. Liverpool FC, Jota's club, called the loss "unimaginable".
Jessica Silva, a player for the Portugal women's team, paid a heartfelt tribute to Jota, acknowledging his qualities as a person and a player. The England women's team also conveyed their condolences and support to the Portuguese team.
The match itself is a Group B encounter in the UEFA Women's Euro 2025. Spain, the reigning World Cup champions, are considered favorites. However, Portugal is determined to advance beyond the group stage for the first time.
Spain has dominated previous encounters with Portugal, winning all six of their senior competitive games. In their recent matches in the 2025 UEFA Women's Nations League, Spain won 4-2 and 7-1.
Several key players are unavailable for Spain. Aitana Bonmatí, the reigning FIFA Women's Player of the Year, is recovering from viral meningitis and is doubtful for the match. Cata Coll is out with tonsillitis. Irene Paredes is suspended. Portugal's Kika Nazareth was included in the squad despite carrying an ankle injury.
Montserrat Tomé, the coach of Spain, acknowledged that Portugal defends well and counter-attacks quickly. The predicted lineups suggest Spain will aim to dominate possession, while Portugal will focus on defensive solidity and quick breaks.
The match is being held at Stadion Wankdorf in Bern. Iuliana Demetrescu from Romania is the referee. The game is being broadcast on FOX in the United States and ITV1 in the United Kingdom.
Despite the anticipation surrounding the game, the focus was also on the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, with the minute's silence serving as a poignant reminder of his life and career.
