[US, Mexico & Canada customers only] April 27, 2025; Anfield, Liverpool, BRITAIN; Liverpool player Mohamed Salah celebrates after winning the Premier League. Mandatory Credit: Phil Noble/Reuters via Imagn Images

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Mo Salah in Tears as Anfield Pays Tribute to Diogo Jota

Liverpool’s first home match of the new season turned into a night of raw emotions at Anfield, as Mo Salah was reduced to tears during a heartfelt tribute to his late teammate Diogo Jota. The Egyptian forward, who sealed a 3-1 win over Bournemouth with a stoppage-time goal, celebrated by performing Jota’s trademark shark gesture before sharing an emotional moment with the Kop after the final whistle.

Mohamed Salah was the last player to leave the pitch, joining in with a tearful rendition of Diogo Jota's chant in front of the Kop ❤️ pic.twitter.com/c5Vj4Rfr8C
— Premier League (@premierleague) August 15, 2025

With most players already off the pitch, Salah stayed behind, standing silently in front of Anfield’s most famous stand as fans sang Jota’s name in unison. Overcome with emotion, Liverpool’s No. 11 wept as he applauded the crowd, before finally heading down the tunnel.

Emotional Tributes at Anfield

The atmosphere was charged with poignancy even before kick-off. Fans held up a stunning mosaic, spelling out “AS 30” on the Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand and “DJ20” on the Kop, honouring Jota and his brother André Silva, who tragically lost their lives in a car accident on July 3. As You’ll Never Walk Alone echoed around the stadium, the tributes set the tone for an unforgettable evening.

On the pitch, Liverpool’s players found their own ways to remember their teammate. Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo both made a “20” gesture with their hands after scoring the opening goals, directly referencing Jota’s shirt number. Salah’s shark celebration after his goal in stoppage time was a touching personal homage, drawing a wave of applause from the Kop.

Mohamed Salah dedicates his goal and celebration to Diogo Jota ❤️ pic.twitter.com/BB63k4QFkG
— Premier League (@premierleague) August 15, 2025

Visiting supporters also played their part, with Bournemouth fans unveiling a banner that read: “Diogo Jota, 20, together.” The message drew admiration from all sides, highlighting the wider football community’s respect for the Portuguese forward.

In the stands, Jota’s widow Rute and family watched on as the Kop displayed moving banners in their honour. One in particular captured the emotion of the night: “Rute, Dinis, Duarte, Mafalda – Anfield will always be your home. You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

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The night was a perfect blend of football and tribute — Liverpool’s victory serving as a reminder of their competitive spirit, while the scenes after the final whistle showed just how deeply Jota’s loss has affected teammates, supporters, and the wider football family.