Mexico’s triumph in the Gold Cup final against the USA on Sunday evening was a moment of both celebration and heartfelt reflection for striker Raul Jimenez, who paid an emotional tribute to his former Wolverhampton Wanderers teammate Diogo Jota. The Liverpool forward tragically passed away alongside his brother in a car crash in Spain last week, leaving the football world in mourning.Jimenez, a key figure in Mexico’s 2-1 victory over Mauricio Pochettino’s USA side, ensured Jota’s memory was front and center during the final. The 34-year-old walked onto the pitch at the start of the match wearing a Mexico shirt adorned with Jota’s name and number, a poignant gesture of remembrance. After equalizing the scoreline following an early goal from Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards, Jimenez emulated Jota’s iconic gaming celebration—sitting cross-legged and mimicking holding a controller—as a touching nod to his late friend. West Ham’s Edson Alvarez sealed Mexico’s tenth Gold Cup title with a 77th-minute winner, but for Jimenez, the night was as much about honoring Jota as it was about lifting the trophy.
Raul Jimenez hit Diogo Jota's FIFA celebration and held up a jersey with his name after equalizing for Mexico.
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 6, 2025
They played together for two seasons at Wolves ❤️ pic.twitter.com/V0Po9VUDoo
The tribute followed an emotional message Jimenez shared days earlier, where he expressed his grief: “It’s hard to process this kind of news - I still can’t believe it. An incredible team-mate, a friend, and above all, a great father. Thank you for everything, my friend. We’ll always remember you. Sending a hug to heaven.”Jimenez was not alone in his outpouring of grief. Former Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves, now playing in the Club World Cup in the USA, also paid a moving tribute to Jota, whom he described as family. In a heartfelt social media post, Neves wrote, “Bug, wherever you are I know you will read this... More than a friendship, we're family, and we won't stop it just because now you decided to sign a contract a little further away from us!” Neves vowed to keep Jota’s memory alive, stating, “From today on, you will enter the field with me and we will follow our path together, on the stage where we met. Diogoal, you are my favorite lemonade!!”
Neves, visibly emotional, was consoled by teammates during a minute’s silence at the Club World Cup, having also attended the funeral of Jota and his brother over the weekend. The loss has deeply affected the Wolves community, with Jota’s time at the club remembered for his skill, passion, and camaraderie.For Jimenez, scoring in the Gold Cup final and dedicating his performance to Jota was a fitting way to honor a teammate who left an indelible mark both on and off the pitch. As Mexico celebrated their victory, Jimenez’s actions ensured that Jota’s legacy endured, a reminder of the bonds forged in football that transcend even the greatest of losses.