Júlio César tells Romário how he shielded Zinho from Flamengo fans after 6-1 loss | OneFootball

Júlio César has recalled a fraught early-career flashpoint, describing how he moved to protect Zinho from Flamengo supporters during an airport scuffle after defeat to Atlético-MG.

The incident followed Flamengo’s 6-1 loss to Atlético-MG in Ipatinga, Minas Gerais, in the 2004 Brasileiro, played as a points-based league with 24 clubs, with the team battling relegation.

As the squad reached the airport, a small group in club shirts confronted them and one supporter kicked a car door, denting the panel. “When Crisan lowered the window, the guy went for him and landed a punch. He needed four stitches,” he said, speaking to Romário TV.

“I saw Zinho in the middle of it and went in with him. I grabbed the guy by the shirt, my finger got caught in the fabric and I hit back. Whatever he is going through, he is a brother, you have to fight for him.”

At the time, Zinho, a Brazilian champion with Flamengo, drew hostility from part of the fanbase, influenced by his ties to Palmeiras and comments viewed as ungrateful to the club that developed him.

Flamengo finished 17th that season with 53 points, three more than Criciúma, who were relegated to Série B. Today the picture is very different, with the club leading the Brasileirão on 60 points from 28 games and contesting the title rather than survival. Júlio César still retains the affection of most Flamengo supporters.

Source: Coluna Do Fla

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”