Why I dedicated My Goal to Late Liverpool Star Diogo Jota – Rinsola Babajide

Super Falcons winger Rinsola Babajide has said her goal celebration against Tunisia was a tribute to late Liverpool forward Diogo Jota.

The 27-year-old, who plays for UDG Tenerife in Spain, was making her Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) debut and played a key role in Nigeria’s 3–0 win. She set up Asisat Oshoala for the opening goal and later scored herself with a fine left-footed strike before half-time.

After scoring, Rinsola celebrated in the style made famous by Jota, who tragically died in a car accident late on Friday night. The moment held deep meaning for the pacey winger, who played for Liverpool between 2018 and 2022, wearing the number 20 shirt — the same number Jota wore at the club.

In her post-match interview with journalist Victor Ademola, she explained the reason behind her gesture.

“It was for Diogo Jota and his brother as well. That celebration was one of the biggest at the club,” Rinsola said. “We called it the signatory celebration. I just wanted to do something for him. He was one of my favourite players when I was at Liverpool. May their souls rest in peace.”

Rinsola’s goal had been a long time coming, and she admitted it was a relief to finally get on the scoresheet.

“I’ve had a few appearances and assists, but that first goal was missing. I’m just happy it’s out of the way now,” she said. “To score in such a big tournament and help the team win is a real honour.”

She added, “Now the focus is on helping the team win the trophy, improving with each match, and scoring as many goals as possible.”

The football world is still mourning the sudden death of Diogo Jota and his brother. Tributes have poured in from across the globe. Liverpool held a minute’s silence and announced they would retire the number 20 shirt in his honour. The club will also pay out the rest of his contract to his family.

Jota, who was 28, played 182 matches for Liverpool, scoring 65 goals and providing 26 assists. He helped the club win the Premier League, FA Cup, and two Carabao Cups. He leaves behind his wife and three children.

Virgil van Dijk and several teammates attended his funeral on July 5 in Gondomar, Portugal, paying final respects to a player remembered not just for his talent, but also for his character and spirit.