Sunday league football team revealed the ultimate ringer – the iconic Brazilian striker Ronaldo.
That’s quite a surprise! Ronaldo‘s presence will surely bring a new level of excitement and skill to the Sunday league team. His experience and talent could definitely make a huge impact, even as a super-sub.
The forward, widely regarded as the greatest to ever play the game, donned his boots and joined Phoenix FC, who currently sit at the bottom of the NWL Division 8 in Essex.
Their struggling lineup received a significant boost from the former professional, now 47, who entered the game as a super-sub when his side was trailing 4-0.
Brazilian Ronaldo returns to the pitch
Sporting number 17, R9 displayed some impressive skills from the outset, initiating the game with a touch of Brazilian flair – executing a rabona pass during the kick-off.
The World Cup winner retired from professional football 13 years ago but dusted off his boots to join ‘one of the worst teams in England‘ after they emerged victorious in a social media competition organized by Paddy Power.
Despite his legendary status, even footballing royalty couldn’t reverse his team’s fortunes, as the atmosphere in Essex in March was a stark contrast to that of Rio de Janeiro according to the sun.
After being caught offside – and on his phone – the superstar was swiftly substituted back off by his temporary manager.
Phoenix FC manager, Brian Edwards, said: “The lads couldn’t believe it when Ronaldo showed up – I hadn’t registered him so used the name ‘Dave Walsh’ and put him on the bench.
“Sadly, he was anything but a Super Sub.
“He was late by the time he got changed and we were already well behind by the time I could put him on, but it’s definitely a moment I’ll remember forever.
“The rest of his performance? Less memorable.”
Ronaldo’s escapades in Essex were all part of a scripted social media video released across Paddy Power’s channels to introduce their new betting feature, Super Sub, which transfers bets when a player is substituted off – an event that even prompted a fan to get a haircut resembling Ronaldo’s iconic 1998 style for the occasion.
A spokesman for the betting firm said: “They say form is temporary but, having seen him in the flesh, Ronaldo’s post-retirement form does now seem pretty permanent. It happens to us all, R9.”
