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Getty Images SportHow Liverpool and supporters paid tribute to Diogo Jota in their first match since his passing in pre-season friendly with Preston
Liverpool returned to action for the first time since Diogo Jota's tragic death, marking the occasion with a series of powerful tributes during their pre-season clash with Preston North End. Supporters, players and staff came together at Deepdale to honour the late Portugal international and his brother Andre Silva in an emotional evening of remembrance.
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- Liverpool retire Diogo Jota’s No. 20 in touching tribute
- Fans belt out chants in memory of the Portugal forward
- Preston lay wreath before emotional minute’s silence
WHAT HAPPENED?
Before kick-off, Preston captain Ben Whiteman laid a wreath in front of the travelling Liverpool fans and both teams observed a minute’s silence. Players wore black armbands and a solemn rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” echoed around the stadium before the game got underway.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Liverpool fans filled the away end with chants of Jota’s name and waved flags that read 'forever our number 20,' while songs referencing Jota’s standing above Portugal legend Luis Figo rang out even before the first whistle. During the second half of the clash, Darwin Nunez scored the Reds' second goal and paid his own tribute by performing Jota's 'gaming' celebration.
DID YOU KNOW?
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL?
Liverpool are expected to hold further tributes during their United States pre-season tour. The club remains in close contact with Jota’s family as they prepare a permanent memorial at Anfield.
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