The Portuguese women`s national team paid tribute to Liverpool and Portugal player Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva following their tragic deaths. The news of their passing in a car accident deeply affected the football community. Before kicking off their UEFA Women`s Euro group stage match against Spain on Thursday, the team honored the brothers by wearing black armbands. A minute of silence is also scheduled to be observed before all UEFA Women`s Euro matches held on Thursday and Friday as a mark of respect.
Stadium Tributes
At Stadium Wankdorf, a banner reading `Thanks for everything` was displayed, remembering the brothers, alongside various other fan tributes. During the minute of silence, supporters held up signs, jerseys, and pictures honoring them. This created a somber atmosphere before the match commenced.
Statement from the Portuguese FA
In an official statement, Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proenca expressed profound grief, stating: `The Portuguese Football Federation and the entire Portuguese football community are devastated by the deaths of Diogo Jota and André Silva in Spain this morning.
`Beyond his qualities as an exceptional player with nearly 50 national team appearances, Diogo Jota was a remarkable individual, respected by teammates and rivals alike, known for his infectious happiness and as a role model. Speaking for myself and the Portuguese Football Federation, I extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Diogo and André Silva, and also to Liverpool FC and FC Penafiel, their respective clubs.
`We have lost two champions. Their passing is an immense loss for Portuguese football, and we are committed to honoring their memory daily.`
Diogo Jota won the UEFA Nations League with Portugal twice. He earned 49 senior international caps, scoring 14 goals and providing 12 assists.
