Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota and his younger brother André Silva died in a tragic car accident on July 3, 2025. Their deaths shocked the global football community and left fans, teammates, and clubs in mourning.

The Accident

Diogo Jota, a forward for Liverpool and the Portugal national team, and his brother André Silva were involved in a fatal car crash in Cernadilla, in the Zamora region of Spain. The accident happened early on July 3 while they were travelling. According to reports, a tyre blew out, causing the car to veer off the road and catch fire. Both men were killed at the scene.

Jota was 28 years old. He had recently married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, just 11 days before the accident, and was a father to three young children. His brother André, who was 25, was also a professional footballer, playing for Portuguese club Penafiel.

Jota’s Football Career

Diogo Jota was known for his speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability. He joined Liverpool in 2020 after a successful spell with Wolverhampton Wanderers. At Liverpool, he made over 180 appearances and helped the team win major trophies, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and EFL Cups.

He also played regularly for the Portugal national team, earning nearly 50 caps and scoring goals in major international competitions. Jota was part of the Portugal squad that won the UEFA Nations League in 2025.

Reactions From the Football Community

News of their deaths brought an outpouring of grief from across the sport:

Liverpool players and staff attended the funeral, where teammates and friends gathered with family to pay their respects.
Clubs and players from around the world issued statements expressing sorrow and support for the family.
Some teams planned tributes and memorials in their honour.

The accident also affected fellow professionals personally. Some players said the tragedy made returning to the pitch difficult because of the emotional impact.

Tributes and Remembrance

Liverpool made several gestures to remember Jota:

The club retired his No. 20 shirt, meaning no other player will wear it at Liverpool.
Plans were announced for permanent tributes, including a sculpture and a “Forever 20” emblem on future kits. Goal

Recent tributes continue. For example, Jota’s children have led players onto the pitch during matches, and teams have held moments of silence to honour him and his brother.

What This Means for Football

The deaths of Diogo Jota and André Silva were a sudden loss for football. Jota was in the prime of his career and widely respected for his contributions to club and country. The accident reminds fans and players alike of the fragility of life and the bonds shared within the sport.

Fans, teammates, and clubs continue to remember both brothers, not just for their talent on the field but for who they were off it.