Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool’s Premier League meeting with Wolves at Anfield was always going to carry weight beyond the table. It was a league fixture between two clubs linked by a player who gave everything to both. Wolves were part of Diogo Jota’s rise in England. Liverpool were where he became a title winner. Months after his sudden death in a car crash in Spain, that shared history shaped the atmosphere around Saturday’s game. The focus before kick-off was not tactics or form. It was memory and respect. Two of Jota’s children, Dinis and Duarte, walked onto the pitch as mascots. They led the teams out ahead of captain Virgil van Dijk. The Kop held up a banner in his honour. The crowd sang his name. Wolves staff laid wreaths. Even the goal celebrations reflected his legacy. Liverpool have spent this season learning how to play football while carrying loss. The club retired Jota’s number 20 shirt. Teammates have spoken about the difficulty of moving forward. Against Wolves, the competition mattered, but the moment mattered more. It was about showing his family that he has not been forgotten. Only after that collective show of support did Jota’s widow choose to speak. Rute Cardoso later shared a message on Instagram to acknowledge what the day meant to her and her children. She wrote: “From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the club and to all the fans for the love, respect and support shown during this incredibly difficult time. Your messages and gestures have meant more than words can express.”
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk had already explained the emotional state inside the squad. He said: “The loss of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva in July was something none of us could ever have prepared for, and something all of us are still coming to terms with. Our thoughts, as ever, remain with Diogo and Andre’s family. They will never, ever be forgotten, and we will carry their memory always.” Head coach Arne Slot also reflected on the tribute. He said: “It was special. After the tragedy happened until now, I have seen so many special moments. Not only our fans but the fans of away teams have shown the respect both Diogo and his brother deserved.” Summer signing Florian Wirtz added a football note to the day, saying: “I think we are hitting rhythm. The last games were really good and we are doing better.” For Cardoso and her children, the message was clear. Diogo Jota’s place at Liverpool still stands.
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