Ruben Neves and Joao Cancelo traveled to Portugal following a 2-1 defeat against Fluminense in the Club World Cup quarterfinals to attend the funeral of their former teammate Diogo Jota. Neves was reportedly close to Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident alongside Spanish player Andre Silva.
At just 28, Jota’s life was cut short, while Silva was only 26.
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Before facing Fluminense, Neves paid tribute to Jota via social media.
“No matter where you are, I know you’re seeing this. We weren’t the types to express ourselves openly, and now I find myself regretting that,” Neves shared in an Instagram update. “But you know how much you mean to me, just like I know what you felt.”
“When I represent the National Team, you’re with me at dinners, on buses, and planes… as always, you’re part of me,” he continued. “We keep sharing laughs, making plans, and living life together. I ensure you’re always present in spirit, and while you’re away, I think about you as we look out for your family.”
Before the Club World Cup match commenced, emotions ran high as Neves and Cancelo observed a moment of silence for their late teammate.
Players and staff from Liverpool F.C., where Jota played in the Premier League, also traveled to Portugal for the funeral, including Captain Virgil van Dijk and manager Arne Slot.
Jota joined Liverpool in 2020, making a significant impact with 47 goals and 15 assists across 79 appearances, culminating in a Premier League title in the 2024-25 season.
Virgil van Dijk and Andrew Robertson of Liverpool FC carry the floral tribute for Diogo Jota and Andre Silva at their funeral in Gondomar, Portugal. (Photo: Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
(Octavio Passos via Getty Images)
Jota’s passing resonated globally on Friday. During the Club World Cup clash against Chelsea’s Palmeiras, his Portuguese teammate Pedroneto honored him by carrying jerseys inscribed with the names Diogo and Andre onto the pitch.
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In Wimbledon, Portuguese tennis players Nuno Borges and Francisco Cabral wore black ribbons during their matches as a sign of respect.
At a recent concert in Cardiff for their reunion tour, the rock band Oasis displayed Jota’s image in his Liverpool jersey on stage.
The investigation into the accident that claimed Jota and Silva’s lives is still unfolding, with authorities yet to confirm who was driving the vehicle or whether a blown tire may have contributed to the crash. The Lamborghini was engulfed in flames upon the fire department’s arrival at the site.
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Spanish civil security later verified to the Associated Press that both Jota and Silva died in the tragic incident, and their remains were returned to Portugal for burial.
**Fan Take:** This tragic event highlights the fragility of life, even for athletes at the peak of their careers. It serves as a somber reminder to soccer fans about the bonds of friendship and community that exist within the sport.
