Liverpool forward Diogo Jota played the entire 90 minutes as Portugal earned a 2-0 victory over minnows Liechtenstein in Euro 2024 qualifying.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored a world record-extending 128th international goal as Portugal – who have already booked their place in Germany – produced a solid display on Thursday night (16 November).
Ronaldo smashed home from Jota’s through ball in the first minute of the second period. The Reds forward also produced a brilliant through-ball for Goncalo Ramos and created “danger” but the goalkeeper anticipated it.
Portuguese newspaper O Jogo (17 November, page 4) says that it took a while for Jota to get back into rhythm but they are quite pleased with his overall performance. He was given a 6/10 rating.
“Like almost everyone, it took him a while to get close to his best, which he displayed in the assist for Cristiano Ronaldo. In the first half, he still cleared Gonçalo Ramos with danger, but the goalkeeper narrowly anticipated it,” wrote O Jogo.
Big season for Liverpool
Jota is currently in his fourth season for Liverpool. Since joining from Wolves, he has managed 129 games for the Reds in all competitions.
In the 2021/22 season, he scored 21 goals in all competitions but struggled badly last season through a series of injuries. When fit, he can be a class act and goals are guaranteed from him.
This season, Jota has made an impact already. He has scored seven goals for Liverpool in all competitions and Jurgen Klopp will hope that he will cross the double-digit mark.
The 26-year-old has a contract at Anfield until 2027, and Liverpool are under no pressure to either renew his deal or sell him. However, Klopp will be worried about his fitness.
Following the departure of Roberto Firmino, it was thought that the Reds would sign a new attacking midfielder cum striker, but Klopp was happy with the available resources.
This is a crucial season for Jota as well. He will need to step up and score goals regularly that will convince Klopp to offer him a fresh new deal.
