League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

Ronaldo reflects on Jota's tribute after Portugal's win over Croatia

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 3, 2026, 2:27 AM

Last updated Jul 3, 2026

Ronaldo reflects on Jota's tribute after Portugal's win over Croatia

Summary

Cristiano Ronaldo commented on the symbolic timing of Portugal's 2-1 win against Croatia in the World Cup last-16 on July 3, 2026, a day marking nearly one year since the death of his teammate Diogo Jota. The team paid tribute by displaying Jota's number 21 jersey after securing their advancement in the tournament. Ronaldo described the moment as a "coincidence of life," emphasizing the emotional significance of both the victory and the tribute. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez highlighted the special meaning of the victory for fans in light of Jota's memorial. Prior to the match, a photo of Jota was shown at the stadium during Portugal's opening game of the tournament.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 to advance in the World Cup
•The match coincided with the anniversary of Diogo Jota's death
•Ronaldo and teammates honored Jota with his jersey
•Coach Martinez noted the match's special significance for fans
•Jota's image was displayed at the tournament's opening match

Latest Updates

2:27 AMYahoo Sports — 'Coincidence of life' says Ronaldo after Jota tribute a year from death

What they're saying

"
Cristiano Ronaldo said it was a "coincidence of life" that Portgual's World Cup last-16 win against Croatia on Thursday came almost a year since the death of his late teammate Diogo Jota.Ronaldo and his teammates posed with Jota's number 21 jersey after their gripping 2-1 win against Croatia sent Portugal into the last 16.
— Yahoo Sports

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