'He's a strength for us' - Roberto Martinez insists memory of Diogo Jota will inspire Portugal at 2026 World Cup

Portugal's squad, as well as Liverpool's, have had to deal with the tragic passing of Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, in a car crash during the summer, as they prepare for their World Cup qualifying campaign. Now, manager Martinez insists that they will be guided by his memory both throughout qualification and at the tournament, as they aim to win the competition being held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Saturday's qualifier against Armenia is Portugal's first game without Jota, who scored 14 goals in 49 caps for his country. He was a two-time Nations League champion, and the squad honoured his memory at a special ceremony, as his parents, and his wife, Rute Cardoso, were given a special medal, as well as bronze-framed jerseys with Jota's name, and his number for his country, 21. 

Martinez told reporters: "We won the Nations League and Diogo Jota was part of that success.

"He's a strength for us, a source of motivation because he wanted to win the World Cup. We have a responsibility to fight for the Portuguese people, as always, but we have a responsibility for Diogo, and that's very special."

Portugal play Armenia this weekend as they begin their path to the 2026 tournament. A tribute to Jota is planned in the 21st minute.