While Porto may have been trounced over two legs, there were still some touching scenes during last night’s Champions League last-16 tie against Liverpool.
After losing 5-1 at home a fortnight ago, the Portuguese side saw a goalless draw at Anfield end their European adventure for another season.
It also marked the end of the road for Iker Casillas, who was making what is likely to be his final appearance in the competition.
So, at the start of the second half, as the veteran Spanish goalkeeper approached The Kop to take his place betwixt the sticks, he found himself on the receiving end of a particularly warm reception…
The Kop showed a brilliant appreciation for Iker Casillas last night. pic.twitter.com/xICVxImNpF
— Mootaz Chehade (@MHChehade) March 7, 2018
The 36-year-old is expected to leave Porto at the end of the current season, with retirement a very distinct possibility.
Speaking after the match, Casillas made sure to doff his proverbial cap (quotes via Liverpool Echo):
I would like to thank the Liverpool fans for that lovely detail.
Applauding a player from the opposite team does not happen very often.
There are definitely worse ways to bow out.