2026 World Cup - Portugal: Roberto Martinez targets glory for Diogo Jota

02.07.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

2

:

Croatia

1

Next Friday will be a special day for Portugal, as it marks the anniversary of Diogo Jota's death.

The Liverpool player tragically passed away in a car accident last year. On that day, Roberto Martinez’s men will face Croatia in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, determined to win and go all the way for their former teammate.

"Every day is tough. When we train, there are always moments when Diogo Jota comes to mind. I don't think the anniversary of his passing necessarily has to be a hard day. I’d rather say it should be a kind of celebration. We have to pay tribute to him, and remember that everything we achieved started with him, like the Nations League title. He is the symbol and the light of our motivation, and we want to win the World Cup for him," said the Portuguese manager at a press conference.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

Related teams and leagues

Portugal

Croatia

World Cup