The football world united on Sunday, July 13, 2025, as Liverpool and Preston North End faced off in a pre-season friendly marked by poignant tributes to Diogo Jota, the Liverpool forward who tragically passed away in a car accident alongside his brother, André Silva, earlier this month. The match, held at Preston's Deepdale stadium, became an emotional memorial to the player, fondly remembered by teammates, fans, and the wider football community.
Before the game, a series of tributes honored Jota's memory. A rendition of Liverpool's anthem, "You'll Never Walk Alone," echoed through the stadium, creating a deeply moving atmosphere. Preston's captain, Ben Whiteman, laid a wreath in front of the Liverpool supporters, a gesture of respect and solidarity. A minute's silence followed, observed impeccably by everyone in attendance. Digital tributes were displayed on screens around the pitch. Both teams wore black armbands as a sign of mourning. Liverpool had also retired Jota's number 20 jersey across all levels of the club.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot shared heartfelt words about Jota, emphasizing the player's importance to the team and his ability to deliver in crucial moments. He noted the difficulty the team faced in returning to work after the tragedy and suggested emulating Jota's spirit as a way forward. "We will always carry him with us in our hearts," Slot said. He added that he often looked to Jota to provide something special in difficult moments, and Jota consistently delivered.
Throughout the match, fans displayed banners and wore T-shirts and scarves bearing Jota's image. In the 20th minute, Liverpool fans sang Jota's chant, a moment that brought the entire stadium to its feet. Darwin Nunez, after scoring, paid homage to Jota by replicating his signature "PlayStation" celebration. The game itself, a 3-1 victory for Liverpool, with goals from Conor Bradley, Darwin Nunez, and Cody Gakpo, served as a backdrop to the tributes. Liam Lindsay scored for Preston.
Preston North End manager Paul Heckingbottom expressed his pride in how his team handled the occasion, recognizing the eyes of the football world were on them. He hoped their actions conveyed respect to everyone affected and contributed to Liverpool's healing process.
Diogo Jota joined Liverpool in September 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers. A versatile attacker, he quickly became an integral part of the team, contributing crucial goals and assists. In his Liverpool career, Jota made 26 appearances in the 2024/2025 season, scoring six Premier League goals. His last goal came against Everton on April 2nd. He played 190 Premier League matches, scoring 63 goals and providing 20 assists. He helped Liverpool win the Premier League title in 2024-25, one FA Cup, and two EFL Cups. Jota's contributions extended beyond the field, as he was known for his intelligence and personality.
The tributes at Deepdale underscored the impact Diogo Jota had on Liverpool, Preston, and the broader footballing world. His memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans and players alike.
