7-Apr-2012 06:30PM BST, Rio de Janiero
When in Rome – do as the Romans do. Our tour ended just pass mid-day but Ricardo suggested to those who are interested, to watch the state finals of soccer at the Stadium Rio. There were 8 takers, Jeanne and I included. Ricardo then organised for the hotel to get us tickets and transport to-and-from the stadium.
Penalty
Flamenco won 2-1, goals courtesy of 99 (Vagner Love) on the early minutes of the first half. Then Vasco responded with a goal at the early minutes of the second half. Closer to the last minutes of the game, 99 (Vagner Love) was fouled and Flamenco was awarded a penalty kick. It was converted by 10 (Ronaldhino) which brought our side to a wild euphoria.
A few more minutes and the match was over, and when it did, a Vasco player attacked the referee who awarded Flamenco the kick. Two body guards immediately protected the referee and more police jumped in – there was chanting in the crowd. There was a brief moment of uneasiness and tension. Eventually the referees were ushered out of the stadium by security. I saw one referee make the sign of the cross just before disappearing into the dug-out. It was an awesome night, certainly one of the cherish memory I will take out of this trip.
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