SANTOS manager Cuca was hoping for a helping hand from above during the Copa Libertadores Final… but he got the opposite.
Despite wearing an outrageous t-shirt featuring the Virgin Mary and Jesus, he was sent off as Palmeiras scored in the last minute to secure the win the Holy Grail of South American football.
Palmeiras lift their second-ever Copa LibertadoresCredit: Reuters
Santos boss Cuca was looking for a helping hand from aboveCredit: Getty – Pool
But he was handed his marching orders in the final few minutesCredit: Reuters
In South America’s biggest club competition, Cuca lost his cool seconds before Breno Lopes scored a terrific header as Palmeiras lifted their second-ever Copa Libertadores.
It was a turgid affair for the neutrals until the game exploded into life towards the death.
Trouble erupted on the touchline in the 95th minute when Cuca attempted to pick the ball up from Palmeiras player Rocha.
A scuffle ensued which resulted in the boss being sent off while Rocha only received a yellow card.
And it quickly went from bad to worse when Ronny’s stunning cross found super sub Lopes at the far post to head the winner in the 99th minute of the game.
It sparked wild celebrations from the Brazilian side who won their first continental crown since 1999.
Santos were gunning for their fourth win in the competition with their last coming in 2011.
Breno Lopes scored a stunning header in the 99th minuteCredit: AP:Associated Press
It was Palmeiras’ first Copa Libertadores win since 1999Credit: Getty – Pool
Palmeiras will be partying until the early hours after their winCredit: Reuters
Marinho shows his dejection as Santos endured a last-gasp defeatCredit: Getty – Pool
Palmeiras’ win also meant Manchester City star Gabriel Jesus earned a free meal from his Brazilian team-mate Neymar.
With Neymar formerly of Santos and Jesus once at Palmeiras, the duo had a friendly wager on the contest.
They agreed that the loser buys the other a slap-up meal and with Jesus bagging the winner for Man City earlier in the day, there is no doubt he’ll be eating like a king.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
