The widow of late Portugal forward Diogo Jota has sent an emotional message to Scotland captain Andrew Robertson, urging him to carry her husband’s unfulfilled World Cup dream into the upcoming tournament.

Jota, who died in a car crash at the age of 28 in July, had helped Portugal qualify for the World Cup but never got the chance to feature in the competition. He had previously missed the 2022 tournament due to injury.

In a heartfelt letter published by FIFA, his widow, Rute Cardoso, reflected on the deep friendship between Jota and Robertson during their time together at Liverpool, where both players shared memorable moments on and off the pitch.

She described how Jota often spoke about his dream of playing at the World Cup and how much he valued his friendship with Robertson.

“The World Cup was one of those dreams, a dream that the two of you nurtured side by side,” she wrote.

Cardoso said she was moved by Robertson’s reaction after Scotland secured their World Cup qualification, noting that it showed how deeply Jota’s memory still lived on.

She added that Robertson would not be going to the tournament alone in spirit, as Jota’s memory would be with him every step of the way.

“When you step on to the pitch, I know it won’t just be you walking out. Diogo will be with you in your thoughts, in your steps, in your heart,” she said.

Robertson, who has since moved to Tottenham Hotspur after leaving Liverpool, responded emotionally to the letter. He admitted that Jota remains constantly in his thoughts, especially during Scotland’s qualification journey.

“I couldn’t get my mate Diogo Jota out of my head,” Robertson said, adding that they often spoke about sharing a World Cup experience together.

He vowed to honour his late friend during the tournament, saying he would carry his memory with him in every match.

“I’m not only just playing for me. I’m playing for both of us,” he said.

The emotional exchange has touched football fans worldwide, highlighting the deep bonds formed between teammates and the lasting impact of friendship beyond the game.