VIDEO: Rafael Leao replicates Diogo Jota's celebration in touching tribute to late Portugal team-mate after scoring outrageous goal for AC Milan against Liverpool

Rafael Leao paid a touching tribute to compatriot and Liverpool star Diogo Jota, who, along with his brother Andre Silva tragically past away on July 3 in a car crash in Spain. Leao scored an outrageous goal in the pre-season friendly between AC Milan and the Reds in Hong Kong and then gestured 20 with his hand to indicate Jota's jersey number at Anfield.

Rafael Leao’s Stunning Goal and Emotional Tribute Highlight AC Milan’s Victory Over Liverpool

In a thrilling pre-season clash, Rafael Leao delivered a moment of brilliance for against , not only breaking the deadlock with an extraordinary strike but also honoring his fallen compatriot with a poignant gesture that resonated deeply with fans worldwide.

Rafael Leao’s Breakthrough Moment in AC Milan vs Liverpool Clash

  • Leao broke the deadlock against Liverpool
  • Paid a touching tribute to compatriot Jota
  • AC Milan beat Liverpool 4-2

VIDEO: Rafael Leao replicates Diogo Jota's celebration in touching tribute to late Portugal team-mate after scoring outrageous goal for AC Milan against LiverpoolVIDEO: Rafael Leao replicates Diogo Jota's celebration in touching tribute to late Portugal team-mate after scoring outrageous goal for AC Milan against LiverpoolVIDEO: Rafael Leao replicates Diogo Jota's celebration in touching tribute to late Portugal team-mate after scoring outrageous goal for AC Milan against Liverpool

During a swift counter from AC Milan, Rafael Leao latched onto a precise pass from Christian Pulisic and charged toward the Liverpool defense. Although Virgil van Dijk raced back to challenge him and attempted to intercept the effort, the dynamic forward unleashed a thunderous shot that soared into the goal. Following this opener, Leao marked the number 20 in a moving homage to his deceased Portuguese colleague Jota, right before the Liverpool supporters.

Team Selections and Transfer Buzz Surrounding Liverpool Stars

Before the game, manager Arne Slot made notable decisions by excluding Diaz and Darwin Nunez from the lineup, fueling rumors about their potential departures from the club. Recent reports suggest Nunez might move to side Napoli or explore opportunities in the Saudi league, while Diaz continues to draw attention from powerhouses like , especially with his impressive tally of 13 goals in the 2023-24 season.

Liverpool’s Pre-Season Struggles and Upcoming Fixtures

Under Arne Slot’s guidance, Liverpool suffered a 4-2 defeat to the Italian outfit in their opening friendly during the Asian tour. The team is set to bounce back in their next encounter against Yokohama F Marinos in the J League World Challenge decider on July 30, aiming to build momentum ahead of the new campaign.