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Jota's legacy is a combination of talent, drive, and team spirit. |
Just 11 days after his happy wedding to his partner Rute Cardoso, Jota passed away at the age of 28, leaving behind an unfinished but brilliant legacy on the pitch and in the hearts of his fans. From an unknown boy in Massarelos to a star of the Premier League and the Portuguese national team, Jota has left an indelible mark.
Lifetime
Born on December 4, 1996 in Massarelos, Portugal, Diogo José Teixeira da Silva – or Diogo Jota – began his footballing dream at Paços de Ferreira, a small club. His natural talent was soon noticed, leading to a contract with Atlético Madrid in 2016.
Despite his lack of success in Spain, loan spells at Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers helped shape Jota into a star. In the 2017/18 season, he scored 17 goals in the Championship, helping Wolves to promotion to the Premier League, showing incredible character and adaptability.
In 2020, Liverpool spent £45 million to bring Jota to Anfield, a huge sum for a striker, and marked a major turning point in the Portuguese striker's career. Under the guidance of Jürgen Klopp, Jota became an important spearhead at Anfield.
He has been a key part of Liverpool's success over the past half-decade. From the Premier League, FA Cup, and most notably the goal in the 5-1 League Cup win over West Ham, to the Cup, when he tucked the ball into his shirt to announce the arrival of his third child.
With his sharp goalscoring ability and ability to shine at crucial moments, Jota was even rated by Opta as "the best finisher Liverpool have had in the past 20 years". The Times wrote: "Jota is not just a player, but also a part of the soul of Liverpool for the past half decade".
Jota has been a key part of a successful generation for Portugal, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, and Bruno Fernandes. Making his debut in 2019, he has scored nine goals and provided eight assists in 39 appearances, helping them win two UEFA Nations League titles (2019, 2025).
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Jota is known for his effective finishing ability. |
With his versatility – from winger to striker to attacking midfielder – Jota brought versatility and sharpness. On the day of his death, the Portuguese Football Federation praised Jota as “an extraordinary man, respected by his teammates and opponents”.
Humility
Off the pitch, Jota is a symbol of humility and family love. His wedding to girlfriend Rute Cardoso on June 22 was the culmination of a happy couple with three children and 13 years together.
Just hours before his death, Jota posted a video of his wedding day with the caption: “A day we will never forget.” Rute’s message “Sim, para sempre” (Yes, forever) on social media has now become a heartbreaking farewell.
André Silva, Jota's younger brother and Penafiel player, also died in the accident due to a tire burst that led to a collision and fire, leaving the family with double grief.
The passing of Jota and André has shocked the football world. Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro said: “The news of the death of Jota and his brother is a tragic shock. This is a sad day for national and international sport .”
Rúben Neves wrote: “I will never forget you, Diogo!”, while Pepe offered his condolences: “A painful loss that leaves our hearts even more empty.” The Portuguese Football Federation said it would ask UEFA to hold a minute’s silence before Portugal’s women’s match at the European Championship in Switzerland this summer.
Diogo Jota is gone, but his legacy – from his brilliant goals, his fighting spirit, to his love for family – will live on in the hearts of his fans forever.
With goals for Liverpool and Portugal, alongside happy moments with Rute Cardoso, Jota was a bright flame despite being extinguished early.
As Rúben Neves said, he will never be forgotten. As the world of football continues to mourn, Jota’s unfinished legacy is a reminder of the fragility of life and the value of dreams lived to the full.
Source: https://znews.vn/di-san-dang-do-cua-diogo-jota-post1565807.html
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