Liverpool began their preseason with a 3–1 win over Preston North End
Liverpool’s first game under new manager Arne Slot ended in a 3–1 victory, but it was more than just a preseason match.
The day at Deepdale Stadium turned into a powerful tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who died in a tragic road accident just days earlier.
Fans filled the stadium, waving scarves with Jota’s name. His song “He’s a lad from Portugal… Better than Figo…” rang out from the stands in emotional unison.
Before kickoff, Preston’s captain Ben Whiteman walked forward alone and laid a wreath in front of the Liverpool away fans. The entire crowd then held a minute of silence to honour the fallen star.
Liverpool took the lead in the 33rd minute through Conor Bradley, who chose not to celebrate, in quiet respect for the occasion.
In the second half, Darwin Núñez added the second goal. He honoured Jota with his signature goal celebration, arms out, then fell to the ground in a pose Jota often used while gaming.
Cody Gakpo made it 3–0 and lifted two fingers to the sky, a gesture for Jota’s No. 20 shirt, which the club officially retired in his memory.
Preston pulled one goal back, but the result was never the real focus.
After the game, Slot led his players to the away fans. The Liverpool crowd responded with chants of “Diogo! Diogo!”, showing love that refused to fade even after the final whistle.
“There’s no right way to grieve.” Liverpool coach Arne Slot said,
“But today, we honoured Diogo in the most Liverpool way with fight, with respect, and with unity.”
Jota may no longer wear the jersey, but Liverpool made it clear: he will never walk alone. The tribute showed that in this club, players become family even after they’re gone.
