Ruben Neves Emotional Tribute After Scoring Late Winner for Portugal

Ruben Neves Pays Tribute to Diogo Jota After Scoring Late Winner for Portugal

Ruben Neves honored his late friend, Diogo Jota, by kissing his shirt number after scoring the winning goal for Portugal in a World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland in Lisbon. Portugal seemed headed for a draw until Neves scored in stoppage time, securing a dramatic victory.

Neves dedicated the goal to Jota, who tragically passed away in July, by kissing his No. 21 shirt and pointing to the sky. Neves had been given Jota's shirt number in August as a tribute to their friendship and partnership on the field.

The goal, Neves' first for Portugal, came in the team's first home match since Jota's untimely death. Neves headed in a cross from Francisco Trincao to give Portugal a 1-0 lead in the dying moments of the game.

Jota, who played for Liverpool and Portugal, died at the age of 28 in a car accident in July alongside his brother. Neves, who played with Jota at Wolves, was chosen to represent him by wearing his number 21 shirt for Portugal.

Neves displayed a tattoo of him and Jota on his calf as another tribute to his friend during the match against the Republic of Ireland. The celebration was shared on social media with the message '26+1', symbolizing Jota's presence with the current squad.

Neves, who had been a pallbearer at Jota's funeral, expressed his emotions after the match, stating that the goal felt special given the circumstances. Portugal remains unbeaten in World Cup qualifying, leading their group with a perfect record of three wins.