Cristiano Ronaldo says Portugal’s World Cup performance against Croatia comes “a coincidence of life,” marking nearly a year since the death of teammate Diogo Jota. Multiple outlets report that ahead of the match, Ronaldo and the squad spoke about Jota in a special moment, describing it as difficult and “unbelievable.” After Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Croatia in the match that sends the team into the World Cup last 16, Ronaldo and his teammates pose with Jota’s number 21 jersey, as part of a tribute to his memory.
Jota died in a car crash in Spain on July 3 last year while traveling by road on his way back to report for pre-season training in England, according to reporting cited by Deccan Chronicle. The crash also involved his brother, Andre Silva. Ronaldo’s comments link the match’s timing and the team’s tribute, with the “coincidence of life” remark reflecting the close proximity between the game and the anniversary of Jota’s death.
