AFCON 2025
The football world has been rocked by the untimely deaths of players who left an indelible mark on the game.
Here are five footballers who passed away before retiring, including Diogo Jota and Samuel Okwaraji, whose legacies endure despite their tragic losses.
1 . Diogo Jota (1996–2025)
Liverpool’s beloved Portuguese forward, Diogo Jota, died at 28 in a car crash on July 3, 2025, alongside his brother André Silva in Zamora, Spain. The accident, caused by a tyre blowout on the A-52 highway, occurred just 11 days after Jota’s wedding. A key figure in Liverpool’s 2024-25 Premier League triumph, Jota scored 65 goals in 182 appearances. His infectious joy and skill earned tributes from teammates like Cristiano Ronaldo, who wrote, “It doesn’t make sense. Rest in Peace, Diogo and André.”
“He was a great friend” – Jürgen Klopp’s emotional tribute to Diogo Jota
2. Samuel Okwaraji (1964–1989)
Nigerian midfielder Samuel Okwaraji collapsed and died of heart failure during a 1989 World Cup qualifier against Angola in Lagos. At 25, the Super Eagles star was known for his tenacity and patriotism, famously playing without pay. His death, in the 77th minute, remains a somber moment in Nigerian football, with a bust erected in his honor at the National Stadium.
3. Miki Roqué (1988–2012)
At 23, Real Betis defender Miki Roqué succumbed to pelvic cancer in 2012 after a year-long battle. Diagnosed in 2011, he showed courage until the end. Betis retired his No. 26 jersey, and fans chant his name in the 26th minute of matches.
4. Marc-Vivien Foé (1975–2003)
Cameroon’s Marc-Vivien Foé, 28, collapsed during a 2003 Confederations Cup match due to a heart condition. Playing for Manchester City, his death shocked the world. City retired his No. 23 jersey in tribute.
5. José Antonio Reyes (1983–2019)
Former Arsenal and Sevilla winger José Antonio Reyes died at 35 in a high-speed car crash in Spain in 2019. He was known for his flair, close control, and finishing, dazzling fans all across Europe.
His loss was deeply felt across the football world.
