Just seconds into the tribute, a small section of supporters broke the silence with shouts and chants, prompting visible frustration among players on both sides. Several Liverpool stars, including captain Virgil van Dijk, turned towards the noise with stern expressions, while referee Michael Oliver quickly signalled for the teams to resume preparations for kick-off.
The early end to the moment of remembrance left many inside Wembley disappointed, with social media awash with criticism aimed at those responsible for disrupting the occasion. One fan wrote on X: “Shameful. This was about honouring a Liverpool legend, not ruining a moment the whole football community was observing.”
Despite the interruption, Liverpool’s travelling supporters continued to sing Jota’s name throughout the afternoon, unfurling banners dedicated to the forward and his family. The poignant tributes, combined with the club’s decision to retire his shirt number, ensured that the Portuguese international’s legacy was felt strongly, even on such a painful day for the Reds.
Jota and his brother, André Silva, were honoured at Wembley with wreaths laid at the centre circle and a planned minute’s silence before the Community Shield kicked off on Sunday afternoon. But the solemn tribute was marred when a small section of Crystal Palace supporters broke the silence, prompting an immediate and angry reaction from the Liverpool end.
The initial shouts from the Palace contingent were met with loud boos from Reds fans, who tried to drown out the disrespect. Referee Chris Kavanagh, sensing the atmosphere turning, made the call to cut the tribute short.
The incident drew widespread condemnation online, with many labelling the disruption “classless” and “unnecessary” on what was meant to be a moment of shared respect between both clubs.
