Following the tragic passing of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota in a car accident, the Reds played their first preseason friendly on Sunday.
The match, held against EFL Championship side Preston, was not only the team’s opening fixture of the new season but also a profoundly emotional moment to honor their fallen teammate.
Jota, who was just 28 years old, died in a car crash alongside his brother André, a tragedy that shook the football world. This match became a symbolic continuation of Jota’s spirit.
Held at Preston’s home ground, the friendly ended with a 3-1 victory for Liverpool. Goals from Bradley, Nunez, and Gakpo showed the team’s determination and unity, even in the face of grief.
Preston Captain Lays Wreath in Tribute
Before kickoff, Preston captain Whitman approached the away fans and laid a floral wreath in tribute. The stadium then played Liverpool’s iconic anthem, You’ll Never Walk Alone, during which players and fans stood for a solemn one-minute silence.
The stadium’s big screen and pitch-side LED boards displayed images commemorating Jota and his brother. At the same time, players from both teams wore black armbands.
In the 20th minute, a reference to Jota’s jersey number, the big screen once again showed pictures of Jota and his brothers. Fans throughout the stadium stood and applauded, singing Jota’s special chant, adapted from Bad Moon Rising, in an emotional show of remembrance.
Jota’s Signature Celebration Lives On
Bradley opened the scoring for Liverpool, but after Preston equalized, Núñez restored the lead in the 53rd minute with a well-taken one-on-one finish. His celebration, mimicking Jota’s iconic “clapping swing” and “game controller” gesture, was a touching tribute to his late strike partner.
Later, in the 87th minute, Gakpo sealed the win with a composed low finish in the box. He pointed to the sky in Jota’s classic celebration style, evoking strong emotions from fans and showing the power of football as a channel for shared grief and love.
Liverpool Thanks Preston for the Tribute
After the match, Liverpool expressed gratitude to Preston on their social media channel: “We extend our deepest thanks to everyone at Preston for the love, care, and respect shown today in remembering Diogo and André, and for the warm welcome we received at Deepdale.”
New Signings Debut, Reds Set for Asia Tour
Liverpool fielded different lineups in both halves, with new signings Mamardashvili, Kokcu, Frimpong, and Woodman all making their Reds debuts. However, marquee signing Wirtz, captain Van Dijk, goalkeeper Alisson, and Mac Allister did not feature in the match.
Up next, Liverpool will embark on their Asia tour, facing AC Milan in Hong Kong on July 26 and Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan on July 30. They will return to Anfield on August 4 for back-to-back matches against La Liga side Athletic Bilbao.
A New Season Begins with Unity and Purpose
This emotionally charged victory showcased Liverpool’s resilience and unity. Jota’s untimely passing is a heavy blow, but it has strengthened the team’s bond and resolve.
Notably, Gakpo’s outstanding performance may influence the manager’s tactical plans in the future, potentially positioning him as a key attacking force in the new season.
As the new chapter begins in tears and applause, one thing is clear: Jota’s spirit will live on every time the Reds step onto the pitch.
