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Darwin Nunez pays tribute to Diogo Jota(Image: Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo did not hesitate to pay tribute to Diogo Jota after finding the net in Liverpool's first pre-season match against Preston.

The forward capitalised on an error in defence by Jordan Storey, to take the ball past Daniel Iversen and doubled the Reds' lead after Conor Bradley's opening effort.

Liverpool's striker then quickly emulated Jota in celebrations that will be fondly remembered after the Portugal international's 65 goals for the club.



Darwin first outstretched his arms until they were rigid to clap in the fashion of a crocodile's bite before sitting on the turf.

READ MORE:Arne Slot reveals emotional demand to Liverpool players after Diogo Jota tragedyREAD MORE:Why Liverpool are playing in last season's kit in pre-season friendly at Preston

Jota's iconic gaming celebration followed, indicitive of his love for esports and gaming.

The Dutch forward then held up his fingers to show the number 20 as he was approached by his team-mates.

Darwin Nunez made sure to do two Diogo Jota celebrations(Image: Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)Jota made the celebration his trademark(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)Cody Gakpo pays tribute to Diogo Jota's no.20(Image: 2025 Liverpool FC)

Liverpool boss Arne Slot detailed how the team will carry Jota in their thoughts moving forwards.

"Nothing seems to be important if we think of what has happened," said Slot

"But we are a football club and we need to train and we need to play again, if we want it or not.

"What I’ve said to the players, I can say it here as well.

Can we be angry if there’s a wrong decision?

Tributes were paid to Diogo Jota(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

"And I’ve said to them, maybe the best thing for us to do is handle this situation like Jota was.