Ronaldo praises Diego Jota after Portugal win at 2026 World Cup

An eventful evening for Portugal was not just about the result. But it is a night of remembrance. When players and fans come together to honor Diego's memory. Chota on the one year anniversary of his passing. Before the start of the Round of 32 match of the 2026 World Cup in Toronto. Jota's image appeared on a big screen after the Portuguese national anthem. Until being responded with a standing ovation from football fans all over the stadium Create a sober but meaningful atmosphere. On the pitch, Portugal faced a difficult time and were taken an early lead by Croatia. But the team's determination was unshakable. Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty in the 68th minute to equalize at 1-1, his first World Cup knockout goal of his international career. The game continued intensely until injury time, with Gonzalo Ramos scoring the winning goal with a header. Send Portugal to win 2-1 and advance to the next round. The results had special meaning because of Diego. Jota previously wore the number 21 shirt for the national team. The post-game celebration thus became more of a remembrance than a victory celebration. After the final whistle Ronaldo wore Jota's number 21 shirt and pointed animatedly at the sky. Live cameras captured tears streaming down the veteran striker's face. Before the other players gathered to take a souvenir photo. Chota's shirt was placed in the center of the image as a symbol of remembrance. Ronaldo also posted a message on Instagram saying, "Vencemos por nós, pelo Diogo e por Portugal!!! VAMOS!!!!", which means: "We won for ourselves, for Diego and for Portugal," while speaking after the game he said it was a special moment that everyone felt before the match and that Jota was with the team. Make tonight's win meaningful to honor Jota in the best possible way. In addition to remembering on the national team stage Liverpool Football Club has also managed to give Jotā's memory a permanent home at Anfield. The club unveiled the "Forever 20" memorial the night before the anniversary. It's located on 97 Avenue, where fans once laid flowers. Scarves and condolence messages The statue, designed by artist Emma Rodgers, features a flowing heart inspired by Jota's goal celebration. And when viewed from different angles, both the numbers 20 and 30 can be seen, which the designer says are linked to the shirt numbers involved in Jota's playing career and the people they hold meaning. The night was a mix of competition, memories and respect. Ronaldo and the Portuguese team showed that in some matches victory means more than the score. It is a testament to Diego's ties and legacy. Jota left a mark on his teammates, fans and football as a whole. --- ## Related Articles 1. [Mundial 2026](https://torcidanet.live/pt/news/cristiano-ronaldo-comenta-sobre-o-gol-anulado-e-sua-substituicao-no-jogo-portugal-x-croacia) 2. [Mundial 2026](https://azkalsgoal.com/fil/news/ronaldo-hindi-ako-natakot-sa-penalty-portugal-2-1-kroasya-abante-sa-round-of-16)