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Ronaldo Scores Emotional Goal as Portugal Mourns Jota Brothers
8 Sep
Summary
- Portugal plays first game since Diogo Jota and his brother's death
- Ronaldo scores in 21st minute, Jota's jersey number
- Manager says Jota's "spirit is with us" after the goal

On September 8, 2025, the international football scene was filled with poignant and surprising storylines. In an emotional match, Portugal played their first game since the tragic deaths of forward Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, in July. Talisman Cristiano Ronaldo scored the second goal in Portugal's 5-0 win over Armenia, netting in the 21st minute, which was Jota's jersey number. Portugal manager Roberto Martinez reflected on the special moment, saying "Diogo Jota is with us" and that scoring in the 21st minute was "a sign" of Jota's spirit guiding the team.
Elsewhere, Germany's Florian Wirtz redeemed himself after a disappointing performance in their previous World Cup qualifier. After losing the ball in the build-up to Slovakia's opening goal, Wirtz made amends by curling in a stunning long-range free kick to seal Germany's 2-1 win over Northern Ireland. In Africa, Tolu Arokodare's heroics, including the winning goal, boosted Nigeria's hopes of automatic World Cup qualification as they defeated Rwanda 1-0. The 24-year-old striker, who recently joined Wolves, is making a name for himself on the international stage.