GUWAHATI: Cristiano Ronaldo was overcome with emotion after Portugal's dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 on Thursday, July 2, leading a heartfelt tribute to the late Diogo Jota on the first anniversary of the Liverpool forward's death.
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Wearing Jota's No. 21 jersey, Ronaldo was visibly emotional as he stood with his teammates, pointing towards the heavens in remembrance of his former Portugal teammate. After the final whistle, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner left the pitch in tears after embracing his teammates and acknowledging the travelling Portuguese supporters.
The tribute coincided with the first anniversary of Jota's death. The Liverpool forward and his brother, Andre Silva, were killed in a car accident in Cernadilla, Spain, on July 3, 2025, just 11 days after Jota married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso. He had been travelling by road to catch a ferry to the United Kingdom for Liverpool's pre-season training after doctors advised him against flying following recent lung surgery.
On the pitch, Ronaldo played a pivotal role in Portugal's comeback, converting a second-half penalty as his side overturned a deficit to book a place in the Round of 16.
In another symbolic gesture, the Portuguese Football Federation included Jota in its official FIFA World Cup 2026 squad. Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez said Jota's spirit continued to inspire the team, describing him as the squad's "light" and a constant source of motivation. The symbolic inclusion ensured Jota's name was part of the official tournament records, honouring his unrealised dream of winning the FIFA World Cup with Portugal.
Reflecting on the emotional evening, Ronaldo said the timing of the tribute made the victory even more meaningful.
"We knew it before the game. It was a special moment. We speak today, our group, about that, the coincidence of life, it's unbelievable," Ronaldo said. "I was amazed because of the situation today. It means a lot to us, not only because we won the game, but also the way we won the game. It was a difficult game, we knew it."
Ronaldo later told Portugal's Sport TV: "We know he is present with us and it only made sense to win today to honour him in the best way."
Portugal's victory sets up a blockbuster Round of 16 clash against Spain at Dallas Stadium on Monday.