In Memoriam: 7 Diogo Jota moments football fans will never forget

Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota has died in a horrific car accident in northwestern Spain, just two weeks after marrying his childhood sweetheart. The 28-year-old forward was traveling with his brother, André Silva, 26, a professional footballer for Portuguese second-division club Penafiel, when their vehicle veered off the A-52 highway near Zamora, crashed, and burst into flames. Both brothers were pronounced dead at the scene.

The crash occurred around midnight near the municipality of Cernadilla, Zamora. Witnesses reported the car—a Lamborghini, suffered a tire blowout while overtaking, causing it to lose control and ignite upon impact. Emergency services, including traffic police, fire crews, and medical teams, responded but were unable to save the occupants.

Jota, who joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 for £41 million, was a key player in the Reds’ recent Premier League triumph. Known for his versatility and work ethic, he netted 65 goals in 182 appearances for the club and won three major trophies, including the 2024-25 Premier League title.

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Here are seven unforgettable moments from Diogo Jota’s career, that football fans will always cherish:

1. Paços de Ferreira (2014–2016)

Youngest Goal-Scorer in Primeira Liga: At just 18, Jota became the youngest player to score for Paços in the top flight with a brace against Académica (2015). His rapid rise from the youth academy to senior stardom marked the start of his prolific career.

2. FC Porto (Loan, 2016–2017)

Hat-Trick vs. Nacional: Jota announced his arrival at Porto with a first-half hat-trick in a 4-0 league win, displaying his clinical finishing. He also scored in the Champions League against Leicester, proving his mettle on big stages.

3. Wolverhampton Wanderers (2017–2020)

Europa League Hat-Trick vs. Besiktas (2019): Jota came off the bench to score three goals in 11 minutes, sealing a 4-0 win and Wolves’ progression in the tournament. His electric performance became a fan favorite.

Premier League Hat-Trick vs. Leicester (2019): Jota’s treble in a thrilling 4-3 victory made him the second Portuguese after Cristiano Ronaldo to achieve this in the Premier League, cementing his legacy at Wolves.

4. Portugal National Team (2019–2025)

World Cup Qualifier Brace vs. Serbia (2021): Jota’s two headed goals in a 2-2 draw showcased his aerial prowess and growing importance for Portugal.

5. Liverpool FC (2020–2025)

Champions League Hat-Trick vs. Atalanta (2020): A masterclass in Bergamo, Jota’s trio of goals (including a delicate chip) in a 5-0 rout made him the first Liverpool player since Robbie Fowler (1993) to net 7 goals in his first 10 appearances.

Last-Minute Winner vs. Tottenham (2023): With Liverpool squandering a 3-0 lead, Jota’s 94th-minute strike secured a 4-3 win, epitomizing his “clutch king” reputation.

FA Cup Semi-Final Brace vs. Arsenal (2022): His two goals (a low drive and a sublime dink) sent Liverpool to Wembley, a pivotal moment in their domestic double triumph.

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6. Carabao Cup Heroics (2022)

Jota scored a crucial penalty in the shootout wins over Leicester (quarter-finals) and Chelsea (final), helping Liverpool lift the trophy. His nerveless spot-kicks were pivotal.

7. 50th Liverpool Goal (2023)

Returning from injury on Boxing Day at Burnley, Jota came off the bench to score his milestone goal, capping a “crazy 24 hours” with a heartfelt celebration for his family. These moments highlight Jota’s clutch performances, technical flair, and emotional connection with fans.