Disruption to Jota Tribute Leaves Van Dijk ‘Disappointed’
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed his disappointment after a minute’s silence for Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva was cut short before their Community Shield clash against Crystal Palace on Sunday, 10 August.
The moment of silence – which was held to honour the siblings who tragically died in a car crash in July – was interrupted by a minority of Palace supporters at Wembley Stadium in London, England. Reds fans responded to the disruption with boos, while Palace supporters attempted to quieten the crowd.
Referee Chris Kavanagh ended the silence early after just 20 seconds, a decision that did not go unnoticed by Van Dijk.
“Yes, I am disappointed,” he said in the post-match interview, while adding, “I don’t know who did that, but there was plenty trying to shush it down, but obviously that doesn’t help it.”
Before kick-off, both teams paid tribute by laying wreaths, and a powerful rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” performed by Liverpool fans. Manager Arne Slot was more diplomatic with his take on the disturbance, suggesting it was unintentional.
Despite the unfortunate incident, the tributes to Jota and Silva were a poignant moment, with both sides showing respect.
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