Portugal determined to honour Diogo Jota against Croatia, says Vitinha | OneFootball

Portugal midfielder Vitinha says his side have the added motivation of winning for former team-mate Diogo Jota against Croatia, with the anniversary of his death approaching.

Group K runners-up Portugal face off against Group L runners-up Croatia in the round of 32 of the World Cup with a place in the final 16 up for grabs.

This match will mark a year since the passing of Liverpool and Portuguese star Diogo Jota. Portugal have paid various tributes to the 28-year-old during the tournament, including wearing special wristbands during matches.

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha says his team has “every possible motivation” to win the match for their former team-mate.

“We are not lacking motivation,” he said. “We want to win this match and advance to the next round. On top of that, there is the significance of this special day (the anniversary of Diogo Jota’s death). We have every possible motivation to win tomorrow.

“For ourselves, as I said, for our families, for Diogo Jota’s family, and for the whole country, for all of Portugal. That is why we are going to give everything we have to win tomorrow against Croatia.”

Manager Roberto Martinez echoed his player’s comments, believing Jota is the driving force for his team.

“Diogo’s dream is still with us and he sets the standards, he sets the light for the direction of this group,” said Martinez.

“Every day is difficult. When we are training, there are always moments when Diogo comes back into our memory. I think the anniversary is just a moment that makes this game [Croatia], Diogo Jota’s game.

“Diogo will always be with us.”