The Portuguese Football Federation has confirmed the tragic death of national team forward Diogo Jota, who passed away in the early hours of today following a fatal car accident, describing the loss as a devastating blow to the football community and the nation at large.
FULL STATEMENT BELOW:
“The Portuguese Football Federation and all of Portuguese football are completely devastated by the death of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who passed away early this morning in Spain.
“More than just a fantastic player, with nearly 50 caps for the senior national team, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by teammates and opponents alike, someone with a contagious joy and a role model in his community.
“On my behalf and on behalf of the Portuguese Football Federation, I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and André Silva, as well as to Liverpool FC and FC Penafiel, the clubs where the players were registered.
“The Portuguese Football Federation has already requested a minute of silence from UEFA, to be held this Thursday before our national team’s match against Spain at the Women’s EURO.
“We have lost two champions. The loss of Diogo and André Silva is an irreparable blow to Portuguese football, and we will do everything we can each day to honour their legacy.”
