‘Worth a lot more than a goal’: Journalist hails Raphinha after incident involving Leeds man

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Last night, Raphinha found himself in the wars as Brazil drew 0-0 with Argentina, with the Leeds man elbowed by Nicolas Otamendi.

It looked like a bad wound, as blood poured from the Leeds No.10’s mouth.

After full-time, UOL journalist Julio Gomes praised Raphinha for his handling of the situation, and for paying respect to the sport.

What’s the story?

Well, Gomes was making the point that, in South America, players would roll around and make a big deal out of a challenge like Otamendi’s.

However, in Raphinha’s case, he showed a ‘Premier League player attitude’ after the clash, with no playacting or exaggeration to be seen.

Gomes added that the 24-year-old ‘set an example’ to his teammates, and to every other footballer who opts to try and con the officials.

Gomes wrote: “Raphinha set an example to his teammates and to every soccer player in the country. More preoccupation with the game, less theatre and attempts to deceive or influence those who already have to make a lot of difficult decisions on the field.

“Raphinha’s blood is not from a cockroach. Raphinha’s blood is that of a professional football player. It is the blood of those who respect the sport. Congratulations to him. That kind of attitude is worth a lot more than a goal.”

Clearly, the South American journalist is a big fan of Raphinha and his respect towards the officials.

Leeds fans will enjoy this Raphinha update

Nobody likes to see players rolling around trying to get their peers sent off.

It’s pathetic, unsporting, and quite frankly, embarrassing.

Leeds fans, perhaps more than most, would agree with this, and will surely be proud of Raphinha for handling the situation like a professional.

In truth, with blood pouring from his mouth, he probably could’ve made more of a song and dance about what had happened to him.

We’ve seen players rolling around and complaining for a lot less, after all.

Hopefully, Raphinha isn’t in too much pain, and he can shine for Leeds against Tottenham this Sunday.