Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Robertson Delivers Emotional Diogo Jota Tribute After Scotland Qualifies for World Cup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sean Hartnett | Last updated Nov 18, 2025 8:21 PM ET

Scotland captain Andrew Robertson delivered an emotional tribute to late Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota after the left-back helped his country qualify for its first World Cup appearance since 1998.

“I’ve hid it well, but today I’ve been in bits. I know the age I’m at, this could be my last chance to go to the World Cup,” Robertson told the BBC. “I couldn’t get my mate Diogo Jota out of my head today. We spoke so much about the World Cup,”

Robertson and Jota spoke often about the possibility of representing Liverpool together at the World Cup.

“He missed out last time because of injury, I missed out because Scotland didn’t qualify and we always discussed what it would be like going to the World Cup,” Robertson continued. “I was in a bit of trouble in my room earlier. I think I hid it well from the boys. I know he’ll be somewhere smiling over me tonight. I couldn’t get him out of my head all day.”

'I couldn't get my mate Diogo Jota out of my head today' ❤️

Andy Robertson on what it means to qualify for the World Cup ⤵️#BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/ngJ2TV7LLj
— BBC Sport Scotland (@BBCSportScot) November 18, 2025

Scotland won the match 4-2 in dramatic late fashion. Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean scored in the 93rd and 99th minutes, respectively, to seal Scotland’s qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Liverpool Supporters and Robertson Keep Jota's Memory Alive

Andy Robertson and Diogo Jota of Liverpool during Jurgen Klopp's Final Liverpool Training Session at AXA Training Centre on May 18, 2024 in Kirkby, England. (Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Robertson has made 90 appearances for Scotland. The 31-year-old has scored four goals for his country.

Jota tragically passed away alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident in July 2025.

Liverpool supporters have continued to sing Jota’s song in the 20th minute of every match as a tribute to the departed Portuguese international.

Jota scored 14 goals in 49 appearances for Portugal.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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