Portugal’s advancement to the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup took a back seat for a few minutes. Although Roberto Martínez’s team secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia, the image that ended up making headlines around the world was that of a visibly emotional Cristiano Ronaldo paying tribute to Diogo Jota, on the first anniversary of the Portuguese forward’s death.
Even before the opening whistle, the atmosphere in the stadium was charged with emotion. The 26 Portuguese players took the field wearing commemorative wristbands bearing Jota’s name and the colors of Portugal—a gesture they have maintained throughout the World Cup. In addition, during the national anthems, a special video dedicated to the former player was shown, prompting applause and tears among fans and players alike.
Cristiano Ronaldo dedicated the victory to Diogo Jota
The match wasn’t easy for the Portuguese either. Croatia took the lead in the second half and put Portugal on the ropes. However, Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to the penalty spot to tie the score, also scoring his first goal in the knockout stage of a World Cup. In stoppage time, Gonçalo Ramos scored the winning goal that sealed Portugal’s spot in the next round.
But the most special moment came after the final whistle.
Cristiano picked up a jersey with Diogo Jota’s number 21, held it up in front of the fans, and, his voice breaking, dedicated the victory to his former teammate.
“We know he’s with us,” said the Portuguese captain as he remembered Jota, creating one of the most emotional moments of the World Cup.
A tribute that accompanied Portugal throughout the tournament
The tribute didn’t begin with this match. From the start of the World Cup, the Portuguese Football Federation decided to keep Diogo Jota’s memory alive.
The players have worn commemorative wristbands throughout the competition; Roberto Martínez symbolically included Jota on the team roster; and various members of the squad have made gestures in his honor at every match. Even during their World Cup debut, the player’s parents were present as special guests to witness the tribute.
Portugal Is Already Thinking About Spain
After defeating Croatia in a dramatic match, Portugal will now face Spain in the Round of 16—one of the most anticipated matches of the 2026 World Cup.
However, beyond the sporting result, the night was marked by the memory of Diogo Jota and by the leadership of Cristiano Ronaldo, who once again demonstrated that, even in victory, soccer knows how to pause to honor those who left an indelible mark both on and off the field.
