Portugal and Spain players observed a moment of silence and wore black armbands in memory of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who died in a car crash in Spain. This tragedy elicited grief from fans and officials in soccer. Coach Francisco Neto expressed deep sorrow over Jota's loss, noting he would be remembered. Banners were displayed by fans expressing gratitude and condolences. Portugal's parliament president announced a motion of condolence to honor Jota and Silva's contributions to the sport.
"We've lost one of our own. He was someone who followed the Navegadoras [Portuguese women's team] closely. We're deeply saddened -- there aren't many words. All we can say is that he will never be forgotten," Portugal coach Francisco Neto said.
"Today, for them," Portugal forward Francisca (Kika) Nazareth had said on Instagram some hours before the match.
Diogo wasn't just a star. He was one of the good ones, the loyal ones, the attentive ones, the easy-going ones ... one of those who don't need noise to make their mark. Thank you, Diego. Thank you, André. Football has become poorer ... and so have we. You will never be forgotten," teammate and fellow forward Jéssica Silva wrote.
The president of the Portuguese parliament Jose Aguiar Branco said the country would honour the pair for their contribution to the sport.
Collection
[
|
...
]