Derby Glory and UCL Hat-Tricks: Diogo Jota’s Greatest Liverpool Moments | OneFootball

Diogo Jota’s Best Liverpool Moments: Hat-Tricks, Stunning Goals and Trophy Glory

On the fourth anniversary of Diogo Jota’s transfer to Liverpool, we reflect on some of the Portuguese forward’s best moments in a Reds shirt, as revealed on Liverpool’s Official Club Website. Since his move from Wolverhampton Wanderers on September 19, 2020, Jota has made a significant impact, scoring 57 goals and providing 20 assists in 150 appearances. From European hat-tricks to domestic cup triumphs, here’s a look at Jota’s most iconic moments at Liverpool.

First Goal for Liverpool

Jota didn’t waste any time making his mark at Liverpool. Just nine days after completing his transfer, he opened his account in a 3-1 win over Arsenal at Anfield. Coming off the bench with 11 minutes left, Jota capitalised on a loose ball at the edge of the box, volleying it into the bottom left corner of the Kop end.

It was a goal made more bittersweet by the absence of fans due to COVID-19 restrictions, but the impact of the moment was still significant. Jota said after the match: “It means a lot. When you arrive into a team that are world champions, you try to adapt as quickly as possible. The way they received me is exceptional.”

Photo: IMAGO

Hat-Trick Against Atalanta

Jota’s standout performance in the Champions League came just two months into his Liverpool career, where he announced himself on the European stage with a hat-trick against Atalanta. In a 5-0 thrashing in Bergamo, Jota demonstrated his finishing prowess.

He scored his first by running onto a pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold, holding off his marker before neatly dinking the goalkeeper. The second saw him control Joe Gomez’s lofted ball with two sublime touches before blasting it into the net. Jota completed his hat-trick by beating the goalkeeper to a Sadio Mane pass and slotting the ball into an empty net. It was a performance that sent shockwaves through Europe and cemented his reputation as one of the continent’s deadliest forwards.

Dribbling Magic Against Arsenal

If there’s one goal that encapsulates Jota’s technical brilliance, it’s his incredible solo effort against Arsenal in November 2021. Early in the second half of a 4-0 win, Jota seized upon a loose pass, dribbling past a defender, rounding the goalkeeper, and calmly finishing into an open net.

Jota himself lists this as his favourite Liverpool goal: “I think it was a good goal and everyone in the stadium enjoyed it.” It wasn’t just a brilliant individual goal; it epitomised his intelligence and quick decision-making on the field.

Derby Brilliance Against Everton

Jota’s class in big matches was further showcased in the Merseyside derby against Everton in December 2021. Liverpool secured a 4-1 win, and Jota added the final touch with a brilliant piece of skill and finishing. Receiving a pass from Andy Robertson, Jota flicked the ball past a defender with his heel and smashed it into the roof of the net.

It was the kind of audacious flair that makes him such a dangerous player in tight situations, capable of producing moments of brilliance from nowhere.

Photo: IMAGO

Penalty Drama Against Leicester City

The December 2021 Carabao Cup quarter-final against Leicester City was a dramatic encounter. Liverpool were down 3-1 at half-time, but Jota helped mount a comeback by scoring in the second half, setting up a thrilling penalty shootout.

When the match went to sudden death, Jota stepped up to take the decisive penalty and coolly dispatched it, sending Liverpool through to the semi-finals. His calmness under pressure was vital, showcasing his composure in big moments.

Sending Liverpool to Wembley

In the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Arsenal in 2022, Jota was again the hero. After a goalless first leg at Anfield, Jota scored twice at the Emirates Stadium to secure a 2-0 win and send Liverpool to Wembley. His first goal came from a powerful low drive, while his second was a delicate chest control and chip over the goalkeeper.

Jota’s knack for stepping up in key moments once again proved invaluable as Liverpool would go on to win the Carabao Cup that season.

Domestic Cup Double

The 2021-22 season was one of silverware for Liverpool, and Jota played a vital role in securing two major domestic trophies. After helping Liverpool to the Carabao Cup final, Jota also contributed to their FA Cup success. In both finals against Chelsea, Jota was called upon to take crucial penalties in shootouts.

In the FA Cup final, Jota took the sixth penalty, and with the pressure on, he delivered. Liverpool won both shootouts, completing a domestic cup double in 2022.

Sensational Winner Against Spurs

Perhaps Jota’s most dramatic moment came in a Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur in April 2023. With Liverpool having blown a 3-0 lead to draw level at 3-3 in stoppage time, it looked like two points would be dropped. But Jota had other ideas. Pouncing on a defensive error, he drilled a low shot into the bottom corner, securing a thrilling 4-3 victory for Liverpool.

Jota’s Journey Continues

As Diogo Jota continues his Liverpool career, these moments are just a snapshot of his contributions to the team. From crucial goals in Europe to last-minute winners in the Premier League, Jota has already created a legacy at Anfield. And with many years still ahead of him, Liverpool fans can expect even more special moments from their Portuguese star.