Portugal midfielder Joao Neves has revealed that the goal he scored in his team’s opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against DR Congo was a special tribute to his late mother.
Neves found the back of the net in Portugal’s draw, and after the final whistle he shared an emotional story that touched fans around the world.
His mother passed away in February 2024 after a long battle with cancer, when the Portuguese footballer was just 19 years old.
“I see my father in the stands, I see my girlfriend—my mother is not there, as you all know, but I know she is always with me. That’s why I raised my hands to the sky. My first World Cup goal is for her,” Neves said.
The Portugal midfielder’s heartfelt celebration immediately captured the attention of fans and gave even greater meaning to an unforgettable moment in his career.
Portugal still has two group-stage matches remaining at the FIFA World Cup, where they will face Uzbekistan and Colombia.
