Celtic star Jota dedicates wonder goal to Benfica legend Chalana in emotional Kilmarnock tribute

CELTIC star Jota continued his sensational start to the season with a stunning strike at Kilmarnock.

But there was also a poignant moment as he celebrated his latest wonder goal.

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Jota pays tribute to Chalana after scoring against KilmarnockCredit: PA

The 23-year old completed a permanent switch from Benfica to Parkhead after impressing on loan last season.

He’s picked up exactly where he left off, too, with a string of superb showings already this campaign.

Jota scored a stunning strike from distance to seal Celtic’s 2-0 opening day win over Aberdeen.

Last week at Ross County he assisted ALL THREE goals as the Hoops ran out 3-1 winners in the Highlands.

He was at it again against Kilmarnock, bagging another stunning goal in the 5-0 thumping in Ayrshire.

Taking a touch 30 yards from goal, the former Portugal under-21 star unleashed a thunderbolt that rocketed right into the top corner of Sam Walker’s goal.

A stunning strike and one that allowed Jota to pay tribute to a football legend.

Jota went running to the cameras pointing towards his wristband.

As the TV camera zoomed in, “Chalana” could be read written on the white band.

It was a poignant tribute from the Celtic man to a Benfica legend who passed away earlier this week.

Fernando Chalana made over 200 appearances for the Portuguese giants between 1976 and 1984 and was also capped by his country.

He had a second spell at Benfica between 1987 and 1990 and is remembered as one of Benfica’s greatest ever players.

Like Jota, Chalana was a tricky winger and he was well known for making the most of his diminutive 5ft 5in frame.

Having been in Benfica’s youth system since the age of eight, Jota will have been no stranger to Chalana’s impact on the club.

Chalana passed away aged 63, with the club paying tribute to the “Little Genius.”

Jota spoke to Sky Sports after the game and revealed the personal impact Chalana, who also coached at Benfica, had on his own career

He said: “He was someone that marked me through my life.

“He always believed in me when I didn’t believe. This one was for him.

“He would keep on saying to me ‘don’t be like the others, try to be different.’

“Every game I would play for him.”

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