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Andy Robertson says he will honor late friend Diogo Jota at World Cup 2026 after an emotional letter from Jotas widow, as Scotland prepare for Group C matches
Andy Robertson and Diogo Jota played together at Liverpool (AP)
Scotland captain Andy Robertson has revealed that he will carry the memory of former Liverpool team-mate Diogo Jota with him at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after receiving an emotional letter from Jota’s widow, Rute Cardoso.
Robertson and Jota developed a close friendship during their time together at Liverpool, and the Scotland skipper has previously admitted that the Portuguese forward was one of the first people he thought of when Scotland secured qualification for their first World Cup in nearly three decades.
As part of FIFA’s “Letters That Unite” initiative, Robertson was presented with a personal message from Cardoso, who reflected on the bond the two players shared and the dreams they pursued together.
“Diogo often spoke of you, of the friendship you built, the battles you fought together, the challenges, the laughter, the conversations about football and about dreams,” the letter read.
“The World Cup was one of those dreams, a dream that the two of you nurtured side by side with the same passion with which you took to the pitch.
“When I heard your words and learnt what you felt on that day when Scotland qualified for the World Cup after so many years of waiting, I realised that Diogo never truly left the pitch.
“By achieving that moment and securing your place at the World Cup, you won’t be going alone; you’ll be taking his dream with you too.”
Watch:
“A dream that the two of you nurtured side by side.” 🏴✉️Andy Robertson won’t be walking alone at the #FIFAWorldCup 2026. 🏴🫶🇵🇹
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 8, 2026
The message deeply moved Robertson, who attended Jota’s wedding and has remained close to the family. Reflecting on the tribute, the Scotland captain made it clear that his World Cup journey would carry a significance beyond football.
“I’m not only just playing for me, I’m playing for both of us,” he said.
Jota tragically died in a car accident in Spain in July last year at the age of 28. His brother, Andre Silva, was also killed in the crash.
Scotland begin their Group C campaign against Haiti on June 13 before facing Morocco and Brazil. When Robertson leads his country onto the world stage, he will do so carrying not only Scotland’s hopes, but also the memory of a friend whose World Cup dream lives on through him.
(With inputs from Agencies)
About the Author
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for over a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket conten…Read More
New York, United States of America (USA)
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