Sometimes, a single moment in football becomes far more powerful than anyone could have imagined at the time.
For Diogo Jota, that moment was his winning goal in the Merseyside derby against Everton back in April — a strike that not only lifted Liverpool’s title hopes but has now taken on a deeply emotional meaning after his tragic passing.
Just weeks before his death in a car accident in northern Spain on July 3, Jota spoke in a documentary about how proud he was of that goal.
At the time, nobody knew it would be his last in a Liverpool shirt. Now, his words carry an even greater weight.
The Heart Behind His Last Goal
The new Liverpool documentary, Champions 24-25: The Inside Story, celebrates the club’s Premier League title-winning season and is dedicated to Jota’s memory.
In one of the most touching moments, he explains how much it meant to score in such an important game after a challenging season.
“It was a very tough season for me but I was always there fighting,” he said.
“That day, I could help the team and I’m proud of what I could still do. As a striker, scoring in big games is why you put in all the effort — you just feel amazing.”
He spoke about chasing moments like that — the kind where you can decide a game, lift the team, and give the fans something unforgettable.
Living the Dream and Lifting the Trophy
Jota also opened up about the surreal feeling of winning the Premier League title.
Growing up in Gondomar, Portugal, his dream was simply to play in the English top flight.
Winning it was beyond anything he imagined.
“It’s something I couldn’t even dream of as a kid,” he said.
“Pictures of that moment will be shown forever. For a small guy from Gondomar, it’s a remarkable achievement. Finally, we did it, and I’ll cherish it forever.”
Liverpool’s Lasting Tribute to Number 20
In the wake of his passing, Liverpool have confirmed that Jota will be remembered with a permanent sculpture outside Anfield.
While the design hasn’t been finalised, the club will also honour him with floral tributes at every site, from the training ground to the women’s team headquarters.
A special ‘Forever 20’ emblem will be printed on all new Liverpool kits for the entire upcoming season.
Fans who choose to have “Diogo J” and the number 20 on their shirts will see all printing profits go to the LFC Foundation.
The charity will also launch a grassroots football programme in his name.
A Day of Reflection at Anfield
When Liverpool host Bournemouth for their first home game of the season on August 15, the club will hold a minute’s silence and unveil a fan mosaic in Jota’s honour.
It’s set to be an emotional day as supporters pay their respects to a player who gave his all for the badge.
Wolves’ Special Goodbye
Jota’s former club Wolves have also moved quickly to make sure he is never forgotten.
They have inducted him into their Hall of Fame, with some of the floral tributes destined for display in the Wolves Museum.
At Molineux this weekend, before their Premier League opener against Manchester City, a huge tifo will be unveiled in the South Bank, accompanied by fan mosaics.
Jota’s favourite song, Fields of Gold by Sting, will play before kick-off, and a 100-page commemorative match programme will be released for the occasion.
Remembering More Than Just a Footballer
For fans, teammates, and the wider football community, Diogo Jota will be remembered not just for the goals he scored but for his passion, humility, and determination.
His final goal may have helped Liverpool secure the league, but the way he played and lived left a legacy that goes far beyond football.