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Hundreds gathered in the Portuguese city of Gondomar on Saturday to mourn the loss of footballer Diogo Jota and his younger brother Andre Silva, who died in a car accident earlier this week.

The joint funeral took place at their hometown local church, Igleja Matriz, where they gathered communities from the football pitch and united with love for the pair.

Jota, 28, and Silva, 25, were placed in line just days after a fatal collision occurred early on Thursday morning in Zamora, Spain.

The two reportedly were on their way to the ferry to return to England ahead of Liverpool’s pre-season schedule. This is because Jota had recently undergone mild surgery and was advised by his doctor to not fly.

The accident came just 11 days after Jota married his longtime partner, Root Cardoso. The couple had three children. The tragic timing left fans and loved ones unstoppable.

An emotional scene unfolded at the funeral as well, as well as a prominent figure from the world of soccer participated in the service.

Liverpool teammates Virgil Van Dik and Andy Robertson were among many who walked the formation reminiscent of walking into the church carrying flower tributes and stepping onto the pitch.

You will be remembered forever. Rest in peace, Diogo Jota. 🤍

You always remember. Rest in peace, Diogo Jota. 🤍 pic.twitter.com/vmcslq6c8a

– Portugal (@seecaoportugal) July 5, 2025

Players, friends and family silently submitted to the church when the bell rang. Among them, one chaser held a placard with a photo of Andre Silva, telling them “Parasempaum denos” – “One of us forever.”

Outside, dozens of mourners hugged each other and comforted each other as they could not find space within the packed church.

The crowd filled with locals and fans were silent for much of the hour’s service. Many supporters praised the players when they arrived.

Known for his relentless energy on the pitch, Jota has become a beloved figure in all of Liverpool and Portuguese football.

Playing for Penafil, Silva was also praised for his own rights, both for his talent and for his connections with the community.

Just three months ago, Jota won the Premier League title at Liverpool.

Now, the same teammates I shared in those moments were standing with him and his family in grief.