Ryan Babel Dedicates Goal to Late Diogo Jota in Liverpool Legends’ 1–0 Win Over Chelsea

Former Liverpool forward Ryan Babel paid tribute to the late Diogo Jota after scoring the decisive goal in a Legends match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

The fixture ended 1–0 in favour of Liverpool Legends, with Babel netting the winner in the 78th minute.

Before kick-off, players and fans observed a minute’s applause in memory of Matt Beard, Diogo Jota, and André Silva. Liverpool’s team was managed by club icons Ian Rush, John Aldridge, Phil Thompson, and Sammy Lee.

Liverpool created several early chances through Yossi Benayoun, while Chelsea pressed with threats from Eden Hazard, William Gallas, and Diego Costa — who was later booked after a heated exchange with Martin Skrtel. In the second half, Chelsea nearly equalised when Florent Malouda hit the post and Hazard was denied by a sharp save from substitute goalkeeper Sander Westerveld.

Liverpool’s breakthrough came from a swift counterattack, as Jermaine Pennant found Babel, who cut inside and curled a precise finish past the Chelsea goalkeeper. The Dutch forward then celebrated with Diogo Jota’s trademark “Baby Shark” gesture, dedicating the goal to his late former teammate.

After the match, Babel said the goal meant a lot to him, describing it as a “good moment” that brought back many memories of scoring and celebrating with teammates and fans.

The Legends fixture, organised in support of the LFC Foundation and the Chelsea Foundation, served not only as a charity match but also as a heartfelt tribute to those recently lost, including Diogo Jota.