Liverpool returned to the pitch for the first time since Diogo Jota’s tragic passing, but the result paled in comparison to the emotions on display.
The 3-1 victory over Preston North End at Deepdale marked the opening game of our summer friendlies, yet the day was all about honouring the lives of Jota and his brother Andre, who both died in a car crash earlier this month.
Ahead of kick-off, tributes were paid to the Portuguese forward, with fans, staff and players uniting in grief and remembrance.
And for LFCTV’s John Bradley, commentating on the game proved to be one of the most difficult experiences of his professional life.
“It was incredibly hard to do the commentary today,” he posted on X after the game.
“Don’t know how I got through it. A lump in the throat, eyes full of tears.
“Football is a game, but the people we meet and the players who come into our lives are so important.”
Bradley’s words reflected what many of us were feeling, with the club and fanbase still mourning the loss of one of our own.
Liverpool’s tribute to Diogo Jota
The match began with a moment of silence and players wearing black armbands in honour of the 28-year-old, whose infectious spirit had made him such a beloved figure at Anfield.
Arne Slot, starting his second season as our head coach after a title-winning debut campaign, named two different XIs across each half.
New signings Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez both featured, while Cody Gakpo capped the afternoon with a late third goal.
But no result could overshadow the reason we were all watching and the void left by Jota remains impossible to ignore.
The full time scenes were a real show of unity, love and grief as fans and players united in remembrance of our No.20.
Fans and club united in Diogo Jota grief
John Bradley’s reflections underline just how personal the pain has been, not just for supporters but for everyone connected with the club.
“Football isn’t about results or transfers,” he added. “It’s about people. Diogo Jota was one of the best.”
The Reds now continue their pre-season preparations, with new arrivals setting in and the rest of the squad building up their fitness.
But Deepdale served as a timely reminder: this team, this city, and this club will never forget the ones we lose.
You can view Bradley’s comments on the game via @jbradleymedia on X:
Thanks for all the lovely messages. Hardest commentary I’ve ever done in my life. Hope we gave you a feeling of how special it was to be at deepdale today. I feel a bit broken now and am sorry for the tears, but in that moment, it couldn’t be helped
— John Bradley (@jbradleymedia) July 13, 2025
