Preston North End to Pay Heartfelt Tribute to Diogo Jota in Friendly Against Liverpool | OneFootball

Deepdale Prepares for Emotional Jota Tribute as Liverpool Face Preston North End

Football can unite in times of grief, and this weekend, Deepdale will stand as a testament to that spirit. As Liverpool take on Preston North End in a pre-season friendly, the focus will not just be on football, but on paying tribute to Diogo Jota and his younger brother, Andre Silva, whose lives were tragically cut short in a recent road traffic accident in Spain.

United in Remembrance

Sunday’s fixture will mark Liverpool’s first outing since the devastating news broke. Ahead of the 3pm kick-off, the stands at Deepdale will echo with the anthem You’ll Never Walk Alone, a moment set to carry extra meaning for both sets of supporters. Preston North End will lay a wreath near the away end, showing their solidarity with the Liverpool faithful in what promises to be a deeply emotional occasion.

A minute’s silence will follow, as digital tributes light up the big screens and pitchside displays. Players from both Liverpool and Preston will wear black armbands, reflecting the shared sense of loss. Adding to the commemorations, Preston have created a special matchday programme filled with tributes to Diogo and Andre, a moving gesture from the home side that speaks volumes about the football community’s compassion.

Photo: IMAGO

How Fans Can Follow Liverpool’s Return

For those unable to be at Deepdale, the match will be broadcast live on ITV in the UK, with global coverage available through LFCTV and All Red Video. Coverage begins from 2.15pm BST, giving fans time to tune in ahead of the official ceremonies. Liverpool will also host a pre-match show across social media and YouTube, allowing supporters worldwide to join together in remembrance.

Liverpool Step Forward Under Arne Slot

This match also marks the first on-pitch action for Liverpool under Arne Slot since lifting the Premier League title last season. After returning to training at the AXA Training Centre this week, Slot’s men will be looking to shake off the summer rust while carrying the weight of this moment on their shoulders.

Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan has confirmed that when the time is right, a permanent tribute to Diogo Jota and Andre Silva will be made, ensuring their memory remains a lasting part of the club’s story.

At Deepdale on Sunday, football will offer more than a contest between two teams. It will offer a space to grieve, to honour and to stand united — showing that while the game can break hearts, it can also help heal them.