“I NEED DAD” — Diogo Jota’s Son Breaks Down in Tears Watching His Father on TV, Creating a Heartbreaking Moment That Touched Millions Around the World

The world of football is often filled with moments of triumph, passion, and celebration, but it is also a stage for raw human emotion that transcends the sport. One such moment occurred recently, capturing the hearts of millions globally, when the young son of the late Liverpool FC star Diogo Jota was filmed crying out, “I need Dad,” while watching a tribute to his father on television. This heartbreaking scene, shared widely across social media, has become a poignant symbol of loss, love, and the deep personal impact of a tragedy that struck the football community in July 2025.

Diogo Jota, the beloved Portuguese forward, tragically passed away on July 3, 2025, alongside his brother Andre Silva, in a car accident in northern Spain. The 28-year-old Liverpool star, who had just married his childhood sweetheart Rute Cardoso weeks earlier, left behind a grieving family, including his wife and three young children. The accident, which occurred on the A-52 in the province of Zamora, saw their Lamborghini spin out of control and burst into flames, a devastating event that sent shockwaves through the football world. Tributes poured in from teammates, rivals, and fans, with figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and LeBron James expressing their condolences. However, it was the raw, unfiltered grief of Jota’s young son that resonated most deeply with millions, reminding the world of the human toll behind the headlines.

The moment occurred during a televised tribute to Jota, aired by Liverpool FC, which included highlights of his career, his infectious smile, and his dedication as a father and husband. As the screen showed clips of Jota celebrating goals and embracing his family, his young son, watching from home, broke down in tears. His small voice, trembling with emotion, cried out, “I need Dad,” a plea that captured the unbearable pain of a child grappling with the loss of a parent. The footage, shared by a family friend on social media, quickly went viral, with fans and strangers alike moved to tears by the raw vulnerability of the moment. One post on X described it as a scene that “will haunt us forever,” reflecting the collective heartbreak felt by those who witnessed it.

Diogo Jota was more than just a footballer; he was a devoted family man whose love for his children was evident in every interview and public appearance. In a 2021 clip that resurfaced after his passing, Jota spoke candidly about the joys and challenges of fatherhood during a Liverpool FC initiative with Joie Baby. Laughing with teammate Joe Gomez, he described the shock and joy of learning he would become a father, saying, “It was a bit of a shock at first. It was Covid’s fault.” His lighthearted humor and warmth shone through, making the later footage of his son’s grief even more heart-wrenching. Jota’s words from that interview, “each day is a new day,” took on a bittersweet meaning, a reminder of his optimistic spirit cut short by tragedy.

The football community has rallied around Jota’s family, with tributes pouring in from across the globe. At his funeral in Gondomar, Portugal, teammates like Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, and Jordan Henderson were visibly emotional, carrying wreaths and paying their respects. The Bishop of Porto, D. Manuel Linda, spoke directly to Jota’s children during the service, acknowledging their pain: “At this moment you are suffering immensely or perhaps not because you do not realise it. The ones who suffer a lot are your mother and your grandparents.” The words underscored the profound loss felt by the family, particularly Jota’s parents, who lost both their sons in the accident.

Rute Cardoso, Jota’s widow, has been a pillar of strength amidst unimaginable grief. Her 2019 post, resurfaced after the tragedy, spoke of their love story that began as teenagers: “Seven years ago we said it would be until death tore us apart. Today I say not even death can do that.” Her words, filled with love and defiance, have become a testament to their enduring bond. As she navigates life with three young children, the football community and fans have pledged support, with initiatives like the Diogo Jota wall of condolence near Anfield serving as a space for fans to share messages of love and solidarity.

The viral moment of Jota’s son crying out for his father has sparked broader conversations about grief, particularly the impact of loss on young children. Mental health advocates have praised the openness of the moment, noting that it highlights the importance of supporting children through trauma. Liverpool FC, in a statement, expressed their commitment to supporting Jota’s family, stating, “We will continue to provide them with our full support.” The club has also planned to honor Jota’s legacy with a permanent tribute at Anfield, ensuring his contributions on and off the pitch are never forgotten.

For fans, Jota was more than a player; he was a symbol of resilience and humility, qualities instilled by his parents, who made sacrifices to support his dreams. In an interview with the BBC, Jota once spoke of their struggles, saying, “I could see their struggle to get the money in the club and I think that caused me a debt that I will never pay them back.” His gratitude and grounded nature endeared him to fans, making his loss even more profound.

The image of Jota’s son, tears streaming down his face as he called for his father, will remain etched in the hearts of millions. It is a stark reminder that behind every athlete is a human story—one of love, family, and fragility. As the football world mourns, the outpouring of support for Jota’s family reflects the unity and compassion that the sport can inspire. Diogo Jota’s legacy will live on, not only in his goals and victories but in the love he shared with his family and the millions he touched with his humanity.