Mexico's celebrations for the winning goal against Canada were full of emotion following midfielder Jonathan Dos Santos being hit with the news of his father's passing just hours before the game.
'Zizinho', a former footballer who played for the likes of Club America, Los Angeles Lazers and Monterrey, sadly died on Thursday aged 59.
Former Barcelona midfielder Jonathan, one of three Dos Santos brothers who made it as professional players, played an hour for El Tri in their Gold Cup semi-final win over Canada in Houston last night.
There was a minute silence before kick-off, while Mexico players huddled around him after Orbelin Pineda opened the scoring from the spot.
Advert
And when Atletico Madrid's Hector Herrera popped up with the winner in extra time, the scenes were extra emotional.
All players pointed to the sky in a wonderful tribute to Dos Santos Sr. Herrera and Dos Santos then shared a beautiful embrace, holding each other very tightly.
Dos Santos showed tremendous courage to play when he experienced such a devastating loss. Having spoken with his mother, he elected to continue playing as it's what his dad would have wanted.
Advert
"The situation with Jona and what happened today, first we hear the news with deep sadness," manager Gerardo 'Tata' Martino said post-match, as per Goal.
"After that, we all had to overcome the fact that Jonathan received this news and try to give him strength.
"Only he knows what he's feeling in these sad moments. After communicating with his mother, he decided to stay and play because, in his words and his mom's, it's what his dad would've wanted.
"Whatever decision he would've made in this circumstance, he has all of our support. It's one of those days where you analyze whether or not football is the most important thing in life or if it's family."
Advert
Mexico will now play the United States in a feisty final fixture in the Gold Cup in Nevada in Sunday's final. Winning the trophy would be a perfect way to honour Zizinho.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football
