Brazil striker Richarlison was surprised to meet his idol Ronaldo after the Samba Boys defeated South Korea in their round of 16 World Cup fixture on Monday, December 5.
The Tottenham Hotspurs forward extended Brazil’s lead with a second goal in the 29th minute scoring his third goal in three matches.
After the match, Richarlison met with Ronaldo, resulting in the current Brazil number nine breaking down in tears.
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Richarlison was dumbfounded revealing that the first time he met Ronaldo was in London for a Nike event where he could only take a photo with him.
“I feel so emotional to see him, because he is my idol, just like Neymar,” Richarlison stated.
The 25-year-old striker revealed to the 2002 World Cup winner with Brazil that he had a photo in which he had his idol's trademark haircut.
Brazilian legends Kaka, Kafu, Roberto Carlos, and Ronaldo have been attending the matches in Qatar in support of the national team.
Richarlison revealed to the Brazilian legend that their presence has been key to the national team's performances.
On his part, Ronaldo urged Richarlison to follow in his footsteps and inspire millions of Brazilian children just like he did.
He also encouraged the number nine to continue with his celebrations despite the criticism from other people as it expresses the joy of playing football.
“Obviously there is a little part who criticize in a hard, violent, hateful way, but this part we need to fully ignore,” Ronaldo stated.
At the end of their interview, Ronaldo asked Richarlison to teach him his famous Penguine dance celebration.
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