Darwin Nunez's paid tribute to Diogo Jota after finding the net during Liverpool's pre-season friendly with Preston.
Jota, 28, tragically passed away earlier this month after a car crash just north of the Portuguese border. And it was an emotional afternoon at Deepdale as Arne Slot's side played their first game since the death of their team-mate.
Conor Bradley had sent Liverpool into the lead in the first half, and Nunez doubled their lead during the opening minutes of the second period. Latching onto a through ball, Nunez skipped past the shot-stopper and rolled the ball into the open net.
Nunez performed a pair of Jota-inspired celebrations after scoring. The Uruguayan performed a Baby Shark gesture, the same celebration which Jota memorably delivered after scoring against Everton at Goodison Park.
The striker then sat down and mimicking playing video games, Jota's go-to celebration thanks to his love of FIFA. The two celebrations were met with a huge applause from the Liverpool faithful, who then burst into a rendition of Jota's chant.
Darwin Nunez of Liverpool celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the pre-season friendly match between Preston North End and Liverpool at Deepdale on July 13, 2025 in Preston, England.
Darwin Nunez performed two Diogo-Jota inspired celebrations (Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
"Darwin Nunez with a beautiful tribute to Diogo Jota after his goal," one fan posted. While a second said: "Love to see it good for honouring his friend!"
"My striker. This is the season you will show yourself," a third predicted. As a fourth shared: "Beautiful human being."
And another added: "Beautiful scenes man. I love football."
Nunez posted a touching tribute to his great friend on Instagram the day of his death. On Instagram, Nunez shared two images: one showing Jota replacing him during a match, and another during a training session.
He captioned the post with heartfelt words: "There are no words of comfort for so much pain. I will always remember you with your smile, as a good companion on and off the field."
He extended his deepest condolences to Jota's family, assuring them that Jota would continue to watch over them, particularly his wife and three children.