The widow of late Liverpool and Wolves star Diogo Jota, Rute Cardoso, has shared a deeply emotional message after witnessing a powerful tribute to her husband at Anfield — a moment that left thousands of fans in tears.
Rute attended Liverpool’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers alongside their young sons, Dinis and Duarte, who were chosen as mascots for the match. It marked the first time the two clubs closest to Jota’s heart faced each other since his tragic death.
Before kick-off, the boys walked onto the pitch hand-in-hand with Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and Wolves goalkeeper José Sá, as Anfield rose to its feet. From the stands, Rute looked on as the crowd delivered an emotionally charged rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone, turning the stadium into a sea of solidarity.
Van Dijk later led the children towards the Kop, sharing a gentle kickabout with them as supporters applauded. Earlier in the day, Wolves fans had gathered at the Jota memorial outside Anfield, leaving flowers, scarves and handwritten messages in his honour.
Liverpool went on to secure a 2-1 win thanks to goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Florian Wirtz, with Gravenberch paying tribute by recreating Jota’s iconic “baby shark” celebration.
After the match, Rute shared photos of her sons on Instagram and posted a message that struck a chord with fans worldwide. She said: “From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the club and to all the fans for the love, respect and support shown during this incredibly difficult time. Your messages and gestures have meant more than words can express.”
Van Dijk later described leading the boys out at Anfield as “an absolute honour,” explaining that after discussions with Rute and the family, it was something he truly looked forward to. He said it was emotional but believed it would be a memory the boys would cherish forever, adding that Liverpool would always be a place close to their hearts — and that Diogo would remain with the club forever.
Supporters continue to honour Jota by singing his name during the 20th minute of every match, a tribute to his squad number, which Liverpool have permanently retired. Fans flooded Rute’s post with messages of love, many repeating the same promise: You will never walk alone.