A Crystal Palace fan group has addressed the disruption during the minute’s silence for Diogo Jota and Andre Silva, held ahead of the Community Shield clash with Liverpool at Wembley Stadium. The tribute was part of the build-up to Sunday’s match, which saw Palace secure their second major victory at Wembley in just three months, following their FA Cup win at the end of the 2024/25 season.
Liverpool had a strong start, with new signings Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike combining for an early goal. Palace quickly responded when Jean-Philippe Mateta converted a penalty after Virgil van Dijk committed a foul. The game took another twist when Jeremie Frimpong scored a bizarre goal in the 20th minute, sparking renewed discussion about Jota.
The match ended dramatically with Ismaila Sarr equalising late, sending the game to penalties. Mohamed Salah missed his spot-kick, and Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott were denied by Dean Henderson. However, the pre-match events overshadowed much of the occasion, prompting Van Dijk to comment afterward.
Van Dijk and Palace Fans React to Minute’s Silence Disruption
Liverpool players wore shirts featuring a ‘Forever 20’ tribute, and a wreath-laying ceremony took place, led by club legend Ian Rush and Palace chairman Steve Parish. Referee Chris Kavanagh then called for a minute of silence, which was abruptly ended due to noise coming from the Palace section.
Speaking post-match, Van Dijk expressed his dismay, telling reporters: “Disappointed, that’s all I’ll say – there were plenty trying to quiet it down, but it didn’t help. It’s disappointing. I hope those responsible feel satisfied with themselves.”
After widespread criticism, Crystal Palace fanzine Five Year Plan issued a statement to clarify the situation. They explained that many Palace fans were delayed entering the stadium due to disorganized stewarding, and some entered the concourse unaware the silence had begun.
Their post read:
“Many of our supporters had trouble getting into the stadium. The stewarding was poor. Some fans entered without knowing the silence was underway. We sincerely apologise. It’s regrettable, and we’re sorry it happened.
“We’ve always had a respectful relationship with Liverpool fans. We don’t condone tragedy chanting—we value community and share a lot in common.”
The message continued, expressing shock and disappointment over reports that some Palace fans booed. The group said they couldn’t speak for those individuals but reiterated their sorrow and condemned any disrespect shown.
When asked if the boos were in response to Liverpool fans’ past jeers of the national anthem, the fanzine firmly responded: “No.”
While over a month has passed since the tragic deaths of Jota and his brother, tributes continue. Newcastle United, for instance, plan to play “You’ll Never Walk Alone” during Liverpool’s first away match of the Premier League season, and fans are expected to keep Jota’s memory alive at Anfield throughout the year.
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