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FLUMINENSE defender Thiago Silva crossed the pitch on his knees in celebration after the club successfully avoided relegation.
The Rio de Janeiro side achieved a crucial 1-0 victory against the rival Palmeiras on the final day of the Brazilian Serie A season.
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A goal in the first half by Colombian winger Kevin Serna secured the team three crucial points, allowing them to remain above the relegation zone.
A defeat would have resulted in Fluminense’s drop to Serie B, Brazil’s second division.
Fortunately, they managed to secure their place in the league by finishing 13th in the final standings.
Following the match, Silva was spotted moving across the pitch on his knees.
This act is a South American tradition that signifies gratitude to God for a wish being granted.
Four years earlier, Silva had promised to one day return to his boyhood club.
The former Brazil international was eager to express his thanks for the team’s survival after the game on Sunday.
Fluminense shared a video of Silva’s heartfelt gesture on social media post-match.
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After crawling the field, the ex-Chelsea star bowed his head to the ground before rising and waving to the few remaining fans in attendance.
Raphinha performed a similar act after Leeds United escaped relegation from the Premier League in May 2022.
Thiago Silva breaks down in tears as he announces Chelsea exit but plans swift return with both sons still at club
Silva joined Fluminense as a free agent in May, shortly after departing Stamford Bridge.
In an emotional message to confirm his departure from Chelsea, the 40-year-old expressed: “I came here intending to stay for just a year, and it turned into four. This journey has been significant not only for me but for my family as well.”
“My sons play for Chelsea, making it a tremendous source of pride to remain part of the Chelsea family—literally, as my sons are here. I hope they can continue their journey at this club that many aspire to join.”
“I dedicated myself completely to everything during my four years here. However, every story has a beginning, a middle, and an end. This does not signify a definitive conclusion.”
“I plan to keep the door open for a future return, even if in a different capacity.”
