Portugal’s coach has said that the team will win the World Cup for late footballer Diogo Jota. Jota died in a car accident on 3 July 2025. After a mixed performance in the group stage, Portugal now has a knockout match against Croatia.
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has given an emotional statement saying that his team will win this World Cup for the late footballer Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident. In a press conference, Martínez said that Jota was part of the team’s past successes and is a big inspiration for further victories.
Roberto Martínez said, “Obviously, every day is difficult. Even during training, memories of Diogo Jota often come to mind. I would not say that the anniversary of his death is the most difficult day. Rather, I consider it an opportunity to remember and honor his life and contribution. Everything we achieved with this team started with Diogo Jota. We won the Nations League title with him. He was the key for us to go on and win more. They are an inspiration and a light to do. Winning the World Cup is our biggest goal now.”
Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva died in a car accident in Zamora, Spain on 3 July 2025. Both were traveling in a Lamborghini. According to the report, while trying to overtake another vehicle, the tire of the car burst and it caught fire. Jota played for Liverpool in the English Premier League. He scored 65 goals and gave 22 assists in 182 matches.
Meanwhile, Portugal’s knockout match in the World Cup is now against Croatia. Portugal’s performance in the group stage was mixed. The team played draws against Congo and Colombia, while only winning against Uzbekistan. The lack of consistency in the team’s midfield and forward line performances is a major concern. Although Ronaldo showed signs of returning to form by scoring two goals against Uzbekistan, his performance in the third match was lackluster. Fans are hoping that he will show better performance in the knockout stage.