Liverpool Football Club paid heartfelt tributes to forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva during their first match since the tragic car accident that claimed their lives on July 3. The pre-season friendly against Preston North End was marked by emotional renditions of "Can't Help Falling in Love" and the club anthem "You'll Never Walk Alone." The atmosphere was charged with emotion as fans and players alike gathered to honor Jota, a beloved figure in the club’s recent success.

Before the match began, a minute's silence was observed, and Preston's captain, Ben Whiteman, laid a wreath in front of the traveling Liverpool supporters. The away section was filled with flags and scarves celebrating Jota's legacy, and the crowd erupted into song, chanting Jota's name throughout the match. The emotional tribute reached a peak at the 20th minute, a nod to Jota's shirt number, as fans joined together in another rendition of his song.

The match itself ended with Liverpool securing a 3-1 victory, but the players made sure to acknowledge Jota as their full-back Conor Bradley and striker Darwin Nunez celebrated their goals with gestures honoring the late player. Following the match, Liverpool announced the retirement of Jota's number 20 shirt across all areas of the club, emphasizing the profound impact he had during his time with Liverpool, where he scored 65 goals in 182 appearances.

Head coach Arne Slot reflected on the emotional toll of the day, emphasizing the importance of allowing players to express their feelings during this difficult time. Jota's passing leaves a significant void not only in the squad but also in the hearts of fans and teammates who admired his tenacity and contributions to the team's achievements, including wins in the FA Cup and League Cup.

As Liverpool moves forward, the tributes serve as a reminder of Jota's legacy and the unity within the club as they continue to honor his memory. The emotional outpouring from fans and players alike illustrates the deep connection Jota had with the Liverpool community, cementing his place in the club's history.