The 2-0 triumph over America-MG was an important result both for the standings, and also because it gave Flamengo a chance to bid farewell to their legendary Brazilian goalkeeper, Julio Cesar.

The former Inter man, who stood between the sticks as a part of Inter’s historic treble, was in tears as he spoke to Globoesporte after the match.

“I do not know if I deserve all the affection that has been given to me. At heart I am a boy who collects moments, and I will keep this moment with me forever. The most important thing in football are the friends that I found and the people that I met. I hope I left a good memory for them.”

It was an emotional farewell for the goalkeeper who began his career with Flamengo back in 1997, but the player knew it would be a difficult farewell, “I have cried a lot this week with my friends and my family. I was ready for this.”

The Brazilian was signed by Inter in 2005, but was forced to spend half a season with Chievo Verona before officially joining the Nerazzurri the following season. Despite competition from Italian legend Francesco Toldo, Cesar proved himself to be an elite keeper and went on to make 300 appearances for Inter. During this time, the player won five scudetti, three Coppa Italia, two Supercoppa and one Champions League.