In a moment that captured both joy and profound sorrow, Diogo Jota’s three young sons took to the Anfield pitch before Liverpool’s match against Manchester United, smiling carefree as they kicked a ball under the famous floodlights — until the eldest, Dinis, 6, paused and said softly to a steward: “Daddy isn’t here today, but…”
The words, overheard by nearby fans and quickly shared online, reduced thousands to tears. Dinis, Duarte, 4, and baby Romeo, 2, were guests of honour as Liverpool continued tributes to their late father, who tragically died in a car crash alongside his brother André in July 2025 at age 28.
The boys, dressed in miniature Liverpool kits with “Jota 20” on the back, waved to the Kop and blew kisses, evoking cheers from the crowd. Club captain Virgil van Dijk crouched to speak with them, while manager Arne Slot applauded from the touchline. A banner reading “Forever 20 – Diogo Jota” unfurled in the stands, accompanied by the 20th-minute applause that has become tradition.
Yet the innocence of the children’s play contrasted sharply with the grief. “Wish he was here to see his kids now…” one supporter posted on social media, echoing the collective heartache. The clip of Dinis’ quiet comment has gone viral, viewed millions of times, with fans calling it “the most bittersweet moment Anfield has ever seen.”
Jota’s widow Rute Cardoso, who has maintained dignified silence, was not present but is said to have approved the visit to keep her husband’s memory alive for their sons. “The boys love coming to Daddy’s special place,” a family friend shared. “It’s healing for them to feel the love from the fans.”
Liverpool FC organised the pitch walk as part of ongoing tributes, including the permanent memorial sculpture outside the stadium and the retired No. 20 shirt. The club also supports the Jota family through a dedicated fund for the children’s future.
Fans have flooded social media with messages: “Those kids smiling through the pain — Diogo would be so proud.” Another wrote: “Nothing sweeter than seeing them happy on the pitch… until you remember why.”
The moment underscores football’s unique power to unite in grief. For 90 minutes, Anfield became a sanctuary where joy and sorrow coexisted — three little boys playing where their father once shone, carrying his legacy in their smiles and in their quiet, aching words.
As Liverpool won 3-1, the victory felt secondary. The real triumph was the love enveloping Jota’s children — a reminder that while Diogo isn’t here today, his spirit fills every corner of Anfield.
