In football, some moments go beyond the game — and what unfolded in Yokohama before Liverpool’s pre-season match in Japan was one of them.
Thousands of miles from Anfield, 72,000 fans came together in emotional unity to honour a man who left an irreplaceable mark on the club.
Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away alongside his brother Andre in a car crash in Spain last month, was remembered in a powerful tribute that stirred every heart in the stadium.
The Stadium Glows Red for Jota
As the teams prepared to take the field, the lights at the Nissan Stadium dimmed.
What followed was a breathtaking display — tens of thousands of supporters raised their phone torches, creating a shimmering sea of light in Liverpool red and white.
It wasn’t just a gesture; it was a message: Diogo Jota may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.
Fans had come ready to honour him.
Some held up banners with heartfelt messages like “Diogo, forever 20”, while others proudly raised jerseys with his name.
One sign simply read, “You’ll Never Walk Alone, Diogo Jota” — a sentiment now etched into the club’s soul.
A Legend Pays His Respects
Adding to the solemn beauty of the moment was Liverpool legend Ian Rush, the club’s all-time top scorer.
He walked out alone, surrounded by the warm glow from the stands, and placed a wreath of flowers gently onto the pitch.
It was a quiet but powerful act of remembrance from one icon to another.
Permanent Tributes Set to Honour Jota Forever
Liverpool FC has made it clear that Jota’s legacy won’t fade with time.
A permanent sculpture in his honour will be installed outside the stadium — a lasting reminder of his impact both on and off the pitch.
While the design is still in the works, the club has confirmed it will stand as a central point for fans to gather and remember.
In addition to that, floral tributes will be placed across various club sites, from the training ground to the women’s team headquarters.
His presence, in spirit, will remain part of everyday Liverpool life.
A Touching Detail in the New Kit
The upcoming season’s kit will also bear a subtle but heartfelt tribute.
A special “Forever 20” emblem — in reference to Jota’s shirt number — will be printed on every new jersey launched by adidas on August 1.
Fans who choose to print Diogo J and the number 20 on their shirts will be contributing to a cause close to the club’s heart.
All proceeds from those specific shirt customisations will go straight to the LFC Foundation.
Supporting the Next Generation in His Name
The LFC Foundation is going one step further.
To keep Diogo’s passion for the sport alive, they’ve pledged to launch a grassroots football initiative in his name.
The programme will aim to support young talents and give back to the community — a tribute Jota would undoubtedly have been proud of.
A Final Farewell at Anfield
The most moving tribute is still to come. On Friday, August 1, when Liverpool take on Bournemouth at Anfield for their Premier League opener, the stadium will pause for a minute’s silence.
A special fan mosaic will also be unveiled — a mosaic created by the people who loved him most: the fans.
It promises to be a match day like no other.
One filled with silence, colour, tears, and chants.
A reminder that while players may leave the field, their spirit never leaves the hearts of those who watched them play.