The Brazilian and Argentinian leagues have produced some truly great footballing exports and for a region rich in quality, the stories and anecdotes that arise also deserve recognition.
In Colombia earlier this year a group of fans brought their murdered friend, in his coffin, to a league game. Aside from being a great send off and an emotional gesture, I would love to know just how they managed to get past security with a full sized coffin! In the UK, some supporters have been denied bringing flags and signs in. Nevermind a deceased friend.
The main story coming out of South America at the moment is the relegation of River Plate. The Buenos Aires based club is one of Argentinas most successful and had been in the top flight for 110 years.
The relegation play-off with Belgrano began away from home and River Plate found themselves on the end of a 2-0 defeat.
The second leg began well for River who saw Belgrano have a goal ruled out for offside and then put themselves 1-0 up. This meant a second goal would ensure River Plates survival. It was not to be, Belgrano equalized and in another cruel twist, River were awarded a penalty. Pavone stepped up and hit his shot straight at the keeper.
