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The tragedy that befell Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva left a deep mark on the football community. Both were killed in a serious traffic accident in Spain, and the news especially hit his best friend, midfielder Ruben Neves, who is currently playing for Al Hilal in the Club World Cup.
Neves and Jota have been friends for many years. The two of them played together both in Wolves and in the Portugal national team, from even the junior categories to the senior ones.
Jota and his brother were traveling to Santander to catch the ferry to England. Due to a recent lung operation, Jota was advised not to travel by plane for a while. Unfortunately, a tire burst on their Lamborghini on the way, the car hit a guardrail, overturned and caught fire.
The ambulance came quickly, but there was nothing they could do for Jota and his younger brother. This loss shocked many as they hoped it was a mistake or a misunderstanding.
Grief and determination on the field
Ruben Neves didn't want to miss Al Hilal's training ahead of the quarter-final match against Fluminense, but it was clear that his attention was far away. His face showed great pain and sadness at the loss of a dear friend.
For Neves, it was the hardest training in his life. Although he tried to take his mind off the tragedy, the videos show how difficult it was for him. He also took to social media to say: "They say you only lose people when you forget them, and I'll never forget you."
In addition, Neves immediately contacted Jota's wife to support her. Jota is survived by his wife and three children, and he and his brother will be buried on Saturday in Portugal.
This tragic event deeply affected everyone who knew this talented football player and his brother.
There have been many messages of condolence from around the world, considering that Jota is one of the best footballers in the Premiership.