It has been a year since former Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva tragically died in a car crash in Spain. The Portugal international, 28, and his 25-year-old brother were travelling to the Spanish city of Santander to catch an overnight ferry to Portsmouth, before driving to Liverpool. Jota had been advised not to fly after undergoing lung surgery.
The accident occurred on the A-52 motorway, roughly 70 miles west of Valladolid, at around 12.40am. Police investigation determined that a tyre blowout occurred while Jota was attempting to overtake another vehicle. The Lamborghini Huracan left the road and burst into flames. Emergency services extinguished the blaze, but both occupants died at the scene.
Jota had recently celebrated winning the Premier League title with Liverpool and married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso just 11 days before his death. His final competitive appearance saw him lift the Nations League trophy with Portugal. His wife has since shared his wedding speech on their anniversary.
Portugal are competing in the World Cup, with their round of 32 clash against Croatia falling on the eve of the anniversary. The squad have worn wristbands throughout the tournament in tribute to Jota, and his image was displayed on stadium screens before their opening match against DR Congo. Manager Roberto Martinez said: 'Diogo is our light. He wanted to win the World Cup, so it becomes a responsibility and an example for us.'
