FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
The match between Portugal and Croatia in the round of 16 of the World Cup is expected to be filled with emotions, as it coincides with the first anniversary of the tragic death of striker Diogo Zhota.
The match will be played on the evening of July 2 in Toronto, but in Portugal the clock will have passed midnight, marking July 3 – the date when a year ago Zhota lost his life in a car accident in Spain, along with his brother, Andre Silva.
The Portuguese national team has kept the memory of the former Liverpool striker alive throughout their World Cup campaign. Coach Roberto Martinez has described Zhota as an "honorary member" of the squad, while midfielder Ruben Neves has worn the number 21 shirt that belonged to his close friend.
Before Portugal's first match in this World Cup, a memorial ceremony was held in honor of Jota, where his parents, Isabel and Joaquim Silva, participated amidst strong emotions.
Defender Vitinja said that the team has a special motivation for this match.
" We have many reasons to win this match, but this date makes everything even more special. We play for our families, for Diogo Jota, for the whole country and for all of Portugal ," he said.
The loss of Zhota has not only affected Portuguese football, but also the international football community. Scotland captain Andy Robertson, one of Zhota's closest friends during his time at Liverpool, has revealed that his first thought after qualifying for the World Cup went to his former teammate. Meanwhile, Zhota's wife, Rute Cardoso, sent a thank-you message to Robertson at the start of the tournament, for his support and for the way she continues to honour the footballer's memory.
During his career with the Portuguese national team, Diogo Zhota played 49 matches and scored 14 goals, becoming one of the most important footballers of his generation.
Lini një Përgjigje