Portuguese Star Diogo Jota and Brother Andre Silva Killed in Tragic Car Accident in Spain
Portuguese international and Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has tragically passed away at the age of 28 following a fatal car accident in Zamora, Spain. His younger brother, 25-year-old Andre Silva—also a professional footballer—was killed in the same crash.
The devastating incident occurred around 00:30 local time on Thursday when the brothers' Lamborghini suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking another vehicle. The car veered off the road and ignited into flames, according to Spain's Guardia Civil.
Jota, who had only recently celebrated his wedding to long-time partner Rute Cardoso on June 22, leaves behind his wife and their three children. Just days ago, he had shared joyful moments from the ceremony with fans online, making the loss all the more gut-wrenching.
Signed by Liverpool in 2020 for £41 million from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Jota quickly became a central figure at Anfield. He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances, playing a crucial role in securing the Premier League title in the 2023–24 season, as well as the FA Cup and League Cup double in 2022.
His professional journey began at Paços de Ferreira, before moving to Atlético Madrid in 2016. After a successful loan spell at Porto—where his brother was also a youth player—Jota made his mark in England with Wolves, scoring 44 goals in 131 matches.
Internationally, Jota earned 49 caps and scored 14 goals for Portugal, with his final appearance coming in the Nations League victory against Spain on June 8. His charisma and relentless work ethic earned him admiration both on and off the field.
Andre Silva had carved out his own path in Portuguese football, most recently playing for Penafiel in Liga Portugal 2. He made 59 appearances over the last two seasons and had been considered a rising talent in the domestic scene.
Tributes have poured in from across the football world. Liverpool stated they were "devastated," while Wolves called Jota "adored by fans and cherished by all." The Portuguese Football Federation described both men as "champions," not just for their athletic achievements but also for their human qualities.
Portugal's Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro, expressed his condolences, emphasizing the immense national sorrow. FC Porto, where both brothers spent formative years, issued a heartfelt statement mourning the dual loss.
In honour of Jota and Silva, UEFA confirmed a minute’s silence will precede Portugal’s Euro 2025 match against Spain.
The loss of two gifted athletes, who represented the best of Portuguese football and humanity, leaves a void that words cannot fill.
Stay connected with Betway Arabia for all the latest sports news and football updates across the globe.
