Corinthians honour Oscar Schmidt with Raniele’s number 14 shirt against Vitória | OneFootball

Corinthians face Vitória at Barradão on Saturday night in the 12th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro, marking the occasion with a tribute to the late basketball great Oscar Schmidt.

Midfielder Raniele will take the field with “Oscar” replacing his own name on his number 14 shirt, the number Schmidt wore for clubs and Brazil.

“I think he is one of Brazil’s heroes. It is a day to mourn, but also to celebrate the legacy of dedication and love for sport he left,” said Fernando Diniz in an interview with SporTV.

Moments before kick-off, the squad carried a historic vest worn by Schmidt during his spell at Parque São Jorge, with captain Rodrigo Garro holding it at the front for the team photo.

Known as “Mão Santa”, Schmidt played for Corinthians from 1995 to 1997 and won the 1996 Campeonato Brasileiro de Basquete. He felt unwell on Friday morning and was taken to a hospital in São Paulo, where his death was confirmed hours later.

In the 1996 final, which Corinthians won 3-1, Schmidt was named the series’ best player with an average of 34 points per game, finished the tournament as top scorer with 959 points, and took the MVP award.

On the pitch, Corinthians are 16th with 11 points from 11 matches, one above the relegation zone. A win over Vitória could lift them up the table, depending on other results.

Source: Meu Timao