### Gig at Principality Stadium Marked by Emotional Homage to Diogo Jota from Oasis Support Act
An outpouring of emotion filled Cardiff’s Principality Stadium as Cast, the Liverpool-based band supporting Oasis on their highly anticipated reunion tour, dedicated a poignant rendition of their song “Walkaway” to the late footballer Diogo Jota. The touching tribute occurred during the opening night of Oasis’ “Live ’25″ tour, which marked the iconic band’s return to live performance after 16 years apart.
The atmosphere was charged with both excitement and sorrow, as the shadow of tragedy hung over the event. Diogo Jota, the talented forward celebrated for his contributions to Liverpool FC and Portugal’s national side, was tragically killed alongside his younger brother, Andre Silva, in a car accident in Zamora, Spain. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, sending shockwaves throughout the sporting and music worlds alike.
Jota’s death at just 28 years old was especially heart-rending, coming mere weeks after he wed his long-time partner Rute Cardoso. Together, they were raising three young children, and the timing of this loss has left many struggling to come to terms with the enormity of the tragedy.
Cast, led by frontman John Power—who sported a signature denim bucket hat on the night—opened the evening’s proceedings. Addressing the audience, Power dedicated the band’s 1996 ballad “Walkaway” to Jota, with the emotional gravity of the performance resonating powerfully with the crowd. The track’s themes of loss and remembrance took on fresh meaning in the light of recent events.
Those present responded with heartfelt applause, underscoring a collective sense of mourning for a sportsman whose reach extended well beyond football. The performance by Cast included several fan favourites, such as “Sandstorm,” “History,” and “Get Up,” providing a soundtrack of nostalgia amidst a night filled with both celebration and sorrow.
Earlier that same day, hundreds gathered at a wake in Portugal to commemorate Jota and his younger brother. Support poured in from across the footballing world, with tributes from teammates, clubs, and fans highlighting the widespread impact the tragic news had made within hours of breaking.
The concert’s running order saw Cast take the stage at around 6pm, followed by Richard Ashcroft—formerly of The Verve—as the second act. Anticipation reached fever pitch as the Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, were scheduled to headline together from 8.15pm, ending a hiatus that lasted since 2009 when the pair last performed as Oasis.
This stadium appearance is just one of several stops on the long-awaited Oasis reunion tour. Unsurprisingly, tickets sold out rapidly for the Cardiff shows, as well as at other venues across the UK, underlining the enduring popularity of the band.
For many, the evening was a testament to music’s unique ability to unite and console in times of loss. The confluence of sentiment—grief for Jota’s passing and excitement for Oasis’ return—created a night sure to linger in the memories of those present.
As Jota is set to be laid to rest on Saturday, 5 July, the football and music communities alike continue to pay their respects, united in admiration for a life and career cut far too short.