DADDY CALL
Brazil legend Adriano breaks down in tears during farewell match after late dad ‘sends message’ using AI
The match was kicked off by an unlikely figure close to the striker
BRAZIL legend Adriano broke down in tears during his farewell match.
The striker featured for both sides as his former club Flamengo Legends took on a team called Friends of Italy.
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Adriano, 42, scored for both sides in a 4-3 win for Flamengo in front of adoring fans at the Maracana.
After 30 minutes played the game was paused and Adriano was honoured on the big screen as he watched a video of his late father, who passed away in 2004.
His father's voice was recreated using AI, and the message for Adriano sparked tears from the 48-cap star.
Adriano was joined in his farewell game by former Brazil team-mates Romario, Dida and Ze Roberto, as well as his son Adrianinho.
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Around 21,000 turned up to pay tribute to Adriano and unveiled a banner of his face ahead of kick-off.
His grandmother and mother were also present with the former even kicking off the match.
Adriano retired from playing in 2016 after spells at Inter Milan, Parma and Flamengo and has lived a flamboyant lifestyle since hanging up his boots, including partying on a yacht and being crowned an emperor during carnival.
Reflecting on his decision to arrange a final game, Adriano stated: "Many people asked me to say goodbye.
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"Although I stopped playing a few years ago, I needed this match to end my cycle.
"I owed it to everyone who supported me and still supports me."
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