On an emotional evening in Bern, Portugal and Spain faced off in the opening match of Euro 2025, but the game was overshadowed by the tragic loss of Diogo Jota. The Liverpool forward and his brother, Andre Silva, tragically passed away in a car accident just days before the tournament. The football world united in grief, and Portugal's tribute to Jota was both poignant and heartfelt.

A Minute of Silence and National Anthem

Before the match, the stadium observed a minute of silence, with a black-and-white image of Jota displayed on the big screens. The Portuguese national anthem was sung with extra emotion, as fans and players alike paid their respects.

Messages from Players and Fans

Portugal's players wore black armbands, and fans held up placards with messages honoring Jota. Jessica Silva, a forward for Portugal, expressed the team's sorrow: "It was a really tough day to play football, because this life is much more than a game, much more than football."

Coach Francisco Neto's Tribute

Portugal's coach, Francisco Neto, struggled to hold back tears during the minute of silence. In his post-match press conference, he spoke about Jota's love for the national team: "Diogo followed our team because he loved the country. He was a devoted supporter of the women's side."

The Game Itself

Despite the overwhelming support from their fans, Portugal fell to a 5-0 defeat against a dominant Spanish side. The result, however, was secondary to the emotional tributes paid to Jota throughout the match.

Social Media Tributes

Before the game, Portugal winger Diana Silva posted a heartfelt message on social media: "Diogo wasn't just a great player. He was one of the good ones – loyal, thoughtful, humble. Football is poorer without him, and so are we."

A Legacy Remembered

Jota made his senior debut for Portugal in 2019 and went on to score 14 goals in 49 internationals. He was a member of two squads that won Nations League titles, with the second victory coming just last month. His legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and players alike.

Fans' Reactions

Portugal fans in Bern's fan zone struggled to process the news. Melanie, a fan with tickets to the game, said: "I can't explain it, but as soon as I heard it I started crying. He's one of us of course, but the question is he was so young, he had three kids, he just got married."

Conclusion

The tribute to Diogo Jota was a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the power of football to bring people together in times of grief. His memory will continue to inspire both on and off the pitch.