Luis Diaz Strikes Gold on Debut, Honors Injured Teammate Diogo Jota with Heartfelt Tribute

Harry Kane emphasized the significance of the football community continuing to "express our affection" for Diogo Jota following his new Bayern Munich colleague Luís Diaz's tribute to the Portuguese player through his signature celebration after netting the decisive goal in the German Super Cup.

The football community has been grieving for Jota and his brother André Silva following their heartbreaking deaths in early July, with touching moments witnessed throughout the Premier League's opening weekend, especially at Anfield and Molineux.

After netting Liverpool's fourth goal in an exciting 4–2 triumph against Bournemouth on Friday evening, an emotional Mohamed Salah remained on the pitch after the final whistle to applaud alongside the Kop as they chanted Jota's anthem.

Salah honored Jota earlier by performing the Portuguese player's iconic 'crocodile' celebration following his impressive goalscoring streak on the season opener.

Subsequently, on Saturday, Díaz took his turn to honor the late player. The Colombian completed a €75 million (£66 million, $88 million) transfer to Bayern following the Reds' Premier League championship triumph last season, making his official debut for his new team against VfB Stuttgart in the national Super Cup.

He commemorated his inaugural appearance with a goal, converting Serge Gnabry's delivery to extend Bayern's advantage. In celebration, Díaz sprinted to the corner flag, sat with crossed legs on the grass and mimicked holding a gaming controller as a tribute to Jota. The Portuguese was an accomplished gamer who achieved the world's top FIFA ranking in 2021.

Jota developed this celebration following recognition of his exceptional gaming achievements, initially showcasing it in November 2021.

"Luis clearly shared the pitch with him and had a close relationship," Kane, who found the net first in Saturday's 2–1 victory, commented on Díaz's homage. "I believe the entire football community unites during such moments. It served as a beautiful tribute to him, his family, and his brother. That entire circumstance is undeniably heartbreaking. The more we can unite and demonstrate our care, I believe the more meaningful it becomes."