Cristiano Ronaldo pays tribute to Diogo Jota after Portugal's World Cup win

Cristiano Ronaldo honored Diogo Jota after Portugal’s World Cup win over Croatia, marking the one-year anniversary of the Liverpool forward’s death. In Toronto, Ronaldo wore a Portugal shirt displaying Jota’s No. 21 as the team celebrated a 2-1 victory; goals were scored by Ronaldo and Gonçalo Ramos. Late drama followed when VAR ruled out what Croatia and Josko Gvardiol believed was a potential equaliser. Jota’s image was shown on the big screen during Portugal’s anthem, while Ronaldo also posted a message saying, “We won for ourselves, for Diogo, and for Portugal.” Jota died at 28 in a car accident on July 2, 2025, traveling with his brother Andre Silva. Liverpool also unveiled a permanent memorial at Anfield titled “Forever 20,” and retired his No. 20 jersey at all levels.