Roberto Martinez described Portugal's World Cup squad as 27 players plus one. The plus one is Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in Spain last July at just 28 years old alongside his brother. Before a ball has even been kicked, that moment stopped everything. Martinez said the spirit, strength and example of Diogo Jota will always be present with this squad. That he will be the plus one forever. It was one of the most genuinely moving things you will hear at any point in this tournament.
Jota made 49 appearances for Portugal and scored 14 goals. He was part of the squad that won the Nations League and he was one of those players who made the dressing room better just by being in it. Teammates spoke about his energy and personality as much as his ability. Portugal will carry him to North America and that means something.
Beyond the tribute the squad itself is genuinely exciting. Cristiano Ronaldo at 41 headlines it and we will get to him separately. But look at what surrounds him. Bruno Fernandes pulling strings in midfield. Bernardo Silva as elegant as ever. Vitinha and Joao Neves from PSG providing energy and creativity. Rafael Leao capable of destroying anyone on his day. Pedro Neto, Francisco Conceicao, Joao Felix, Goncalo Ramos. This is not a squad built around one ageing superstar. This is a proper squad with depth and quality all over the pitch.
Portugal are in Group K against DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia. They should progress comfortably and from the knockout stages anything is possible. Martinez said Portugal should not be considered among the favourites but that feels like classic manager speak. This squad is good enough to go very deep in this tournament.
They have never won the World Cup. Euro 2016 was their only major international trophy before the Nations League. But this generation, right now, in North America, with this squad? This might be the best chance they ever get.
For Jota. Let me know your thoughts.