It's Ronaldinho-mania: the Brazilian champion returns to the pitch at 46 years old in Serie C with the Ravenna shirt and, for one evening, brings the spotlight from half the world to the small Romagna city.
The Brazilian no longer has the pace and timing he once had, but he still has class, a quick foot, and a quick mind; so his teammates, incredulous and happy to have him by their side, run and suffer for him too. Former AC Milan players and national teammates Dida and Serginho are in the stands first and then on the pitch to greet him. The stands at the Benelli Stadium are filled with familiar faces: from Flavio Briatore to former tennis player Fabio Fognini. All there to enjoy the spectacle of Ronaldinho's return to the field, who, after 11 years of inactivity, still has the ability to captivate the fans.
R 10 touched the ball for the first time after five minutes, a simple pass. He would touch the ball 15 times in the first half he was on the pitch, 45 minutes plus one stoppage time, one minute for each year of his age: only two turnovers and wasted balls. In the middle, he capped it all off with a corner kick from which former Inter player Donati nearly headed in the opener and then joined the build-up to the opener (again by Donati in the 36th minute), passing to Lonardi, who then provided the assist. Before and afterward, there was time for photos and hugs with teammates and opponents, who, whenever possible, spared him from tough tackles and physical contact. Ravenna extended their lead in the second half in the 12th minute through Rabbi, then managed the lead with ease.
Ronaldinho is a winning gamble for the club: Serie C and Ravenna have been promoted to the United States, Arabia, England, and Asia, with matches broadcast everywhere. The stadium is sold out and everyone is going crazy for him. It's difficult to get a photo with the Brazilian number 10. So, at the stadium, cardboard cutouts of Dinho are set up for fans to take selfies, while the Ravenna store is mobbed for fans seeking a jersey specially created by the club for the debut of R10.
(Unioneonline)