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By Oscar Okhifo
The football world is in mourning mood following the shocking death of Liverpool and Portuguese forward, Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, popularly known as Diogo Jota.
The 28-year-old amazing, talented athlete passed away Thursday morning in a tragic road accident, just days after celebrating one of life’s most joyful milestones , his wedding that is.
Born on December 4, 1996, in Porto, Portugal, Jota blazed a remarkable path in professional football, rising through the ranks with determination and flair and field panache to become one of Europe’s most respected attacking talents.
Known for his explosive pace, intelligent field quidities, and clinical finishing, the right-footed forward was widely admired for his versatility in the field of play. A player who was capable of operating as a central striker or on either wing.
Jota began his professional career in Portugal before making his mark on the international stage. His big break came when he signed for Liverpool FC from Wolverhampton Wanderers on September 19, 2020.
At Anfield, he quickly became a key component of Jürgen Klopp’s attacking setup, consistently delivering goals and assists in crucial fixtures.
Over the course of his career, Jota featured in 398 club matches across all major competitions, scoring 136 goals and contributing 66 assists. In the Premier League alone, he made 190 appearances, netting 63 goals and laying on 24 assists.
He also left his mark in European competitions, including six goals in the UEFA Champions League and nine in the Europa League, along with several strikes in domestic cup tournaments.
At his career peak in December 2021, his market value peaked to €60 million. As of May 2025, he was valued at €40 million. In August 2022, he renewed his Liverpool contract, which was set to run until 2027, underscoring the club’s faith in his long-term value.
Off the field of play, Jota had just entered a new chapter in his personal life. On June 28, 2025, he got married to his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, in a private ceremony surrounded by family members and close friends.
His sudden passing, so soon after this joyful occasion, has left fans, teammates, and the broader football community in the deep ocean of grief.
Tributes have been pouring in from around the world, in honor of a player who brought untold joy to many across the world, whose impact extended beyond the pitch.
Diogo Jota is remembered not just as a gifted footballer, but as a devoted family man and respected professional whose journey inspired many.
His legacy will live on in the hearts of millions who witnessed his uncommon brilliance and dexterity with the round leather. The Sports Desk of Pointblank News.com join millions across the globe in this grief and pray that the family, teammates and fans across the world will have the gusto to pull through this difficult time.