3
Jul
Obituary: Jota & Silva
Diogo Jota and André Silva tragically lost their lives in a car accident on the A-52 motorway in Cernadilla, Spain. Their untimely deaths have deeply affected the football world.
Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, 28, was a talented forward celebrated for his exceptional skill, determination, and passion for the game. He captivated fans with his finishing ability, speed, dribbling prowess, and tireless work ethic. As a versatile forward, he excelled in various attacking roles, including centre forward, out-and-out striker, winger, false nine, and inside forward. Although primarily right-footed, he demonstrated remarkable proficiency with both feet. Jota was one of the few players at Liverpool FC who scored more than 10 goals with his head, left foot, and right foot. His clinical finishing, explosive pace, positional awareness, movement, and close control made him particularly effective on the counter-attack.
Jota's career, though brief, was marked by outstanding achievements in football history. In a Champions League match against Midtjylland in October 2020, he scored a significant milestone: the 10,000th goal in Liverpool’s history. He became the first player in Liverpool's history to score in each of his first four home Premier League appearances. In January 2025, Jota came off the bench against Nottingham Forest and scored within 21 seconds, equaling the record for the fastest goal ever scored by a Liverpool substitute since the 2006–07 season. A powerful header against Leicester helped extend Liverpool’s record of a 64-match unbeaten streak at Anfield, a feat etched in Premier League history. Even while sidelined by injury, Jota remained competitive, ranking #1 globally in FIFA 21’s FUT Champions mode and using his 99-rated card to dominate online play.
The summer of 2025 was meant to celebrate everything Diogo Jota had achieved—on the pitch, in life, and love. Fresh from winning the Premier League with Liverpool and the Nations League with Portugal, the 28-year-old had just married his high school sweetheart, Rute Cardoso, the mother of his three children, only 11 days before the tragic accident. Jota passed away at the peak of his career.
André Filipe Teixeira da Silva, 25, not only supported his brother but also made a name for himself as a talented Portuguese footballer. The younger sibling of Liverpool star Diogo Jota forged his own path in the football world, showcasing a passion and dedication that endeared André to teammates and fans alike. The FC Penafiel midfielder primarily played as an attacking midfielder, left winger, or centre-forward. André Silva displayed impressive offensive skills and a relentless work rate on the pitch. His immense potential earned him recognition as a rising star in Portuguese football. His humility and commitment to the sport shone through in every match, winning the respect of his peers. During this season with FC Penafiel, André made 32 appearances, scoring twice and providing five assists.
The Portuguese Football Federation paid tribute to both brothers, calling them "extraordinary people" who were "respected by teammates and opponents alike." FC Liverpool dedicated a special article to Diogo Jota, highlighting his contributions to their victories. FC Penafiel released a separate statement mourning the loss of André, whom they described as "talented, humble, and full of promise."
Diogo Jota and André Silva were the only children of Joaquim and Isabel Silva. The sudden and heartbreaking loss of both brothers has profoundly impacted their family and the whole football world. People from various countries have united in solidarity, honouring the memories of Diogo and André, two remarkable Portuguese professional footballers. Tributes have poured in from fans, players, and clubs, all expressing their grief and admiration for the brothers.
The BRAMS team offers our heartfelt condolences to the Silva family and all those affected by this tragic loss. Diogo and André will forever hold a place in the history of sport, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the world of football.
