The 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final between Mexico and the United States was highly anticipated, but a touching tribute by Mexican striker Raúl Jiménez to his late friend and former teammate, Diogo Jota, captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Jota tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain just days before the final, along with his brother Andre Silva.

Jiménez honored Jota in multiple ways during the Gold Cup final. Before the match, Jiménez walked onto the field wearing a black Mexico jersey with the number 20 and "DIOGO J." printed on the back. This gesture was immediately noticed by fans and photographers in the stadium and quickly spread across social media. The pair had been attacking partners at Wolverhampton Wanderers from 2018 to 2020, creating a strong bond.

During warmups, Jiménez donned a jersey bearing Jota's name and number. The two players had electrified crowds during their time together at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where they forged a potent attacking partnership in the Premier League.

In the 27th minute of the final against the USMNT, Jiménez scored the equalizer for Mexico. After celebrating with his teammates, he paid tribute to Jota by sitting on the grass and displaying a jersey with Jota's name and number. Jiménez also imitated Jota's signature goal celebration, pretending to play a video game. Jota was known to be an avid gamer and often celebrated his goals by mimicking playing with a joystick.

Jiménez and Jota were teammates at Wolverhampton Wanderers from 2018 to 2020. Jiménez spoke fondly of Jota before the Gold Cup final, calling him a "great teammate" and a "great friend". "We shared many beautiful moments being important parts of what Wolves achieved in those times," Jiménez said. "It's very tough to learn this type of news about someone so close to you and who was a great friend".

The tribute occurred on the same day as Jota's funeral in Gondomar, Portugal. Family, friends, and former teammates gathered to say their goodbyes. News of Jota's and his brother's death sent shockwaves throughout the football world. Tributes poured in from clubs and players. Liverpool FC, Jota's club, expressed their devastation and offered support to his family. Many players changed their social media profile pictures to honor Jota.

Jota's funeral was attended by numerous Liverpool players, past and present. A service was held at Igreja Matriz de Gondomar church in Gondomar. Mourners lined the streets as the brothers' coffins were carried into the church.

Raúl Jiménez's heartfelt tribute was widely praised as a touching and respectful way to honor his friend and former teammate. His actions resonated deeply with fans and players alike, demonstrating the strong bonds forged through football.