Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe scored a dramatic late winner in their 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and paid an emotional tribute to the late Diogo Jota, dedicating the goal to the Liverpool forward.
The football world remains in mourning following the tragic deaths of Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, in a car crash earlier this week.
Read Also: Emotional farewell as Diogo Jota and brother laid to rest in Portugal
Their funeral, held in Portugal on Saturday, was attended by hundreds, including several Liverpool and Portugal teammates.
Mbappe, visibly moved by the tragedy, honoured Jota in the moments after scoring the match-winning goal. The France captain held up his fingers to form the number 20, a reference to Jota’s now-retired Liverpool shirt number.
Classy gesture amid high-stakes clash
The forward’s stunning finish in the closing moments of the match sealed Real Madrid’s passage to the semi-finals of the expanded Club World Cup. But while the result was significant on the pitch, Mbappe’s tribute resonated far beyond the game.
In a moment of deep respect, Mbappe joined players across Europe in honouring Jota, whose sudden passing has shaken fans, teammates, and the footballing community.
A goal with meaning
Mbappe’s gesture drew praise across social media, with many commending him for the show of solidarity. Though Real Madrid celebrated their hard-fought win over Dortmund, the striker’s dedication reminded fans of the deeper human connections that bind the sport.
As tributes continue to pour in from clubs and players worldwide, Mbappe’s poignant tribute serves as a reminder that even in football’s biggest moments, the memory of a lost teammate and friend can take centre stage.
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