In his last interview, Flávio recalled his coach's attitude before Athletico's title in 2001
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The most superstitious always avoid receiving the champion's armband before the final, but this situation happened with the Athletico squad that was Brazilian champion in 2001.
In an interview for the Nosso Atlético podcast, in May, goalkeeper Flávio , who passed away last Sunday (13) , said that each player received a champion's sash from coach Geninho before the second game of the final against São Caetano.
Everyone hugged. Our group was so close that even before we arrived at the stadium, Geninho handed us a banner and placed the responsibility on us. He said, "No matter what happens, you're already champions."
On that occasion, the early delivery didn't pose any problems for Athletico. After a 4-2 victory at Arena da Baixada, the Rubro-Negro won 1-0 in São Caetano do Sul. Top scorer Alex Mineiro was the hero of the match after collecting the rebound from goalkeeper Silvio Luiz.
Flávio arrived at Furacão in 1995. At the time, the Rubro-Negro was competing in the Série B of the Brazilian Championship, winning the competition. "Pantera," as he became known, took over the starting spot after Ricardo Pinto left.
The goalkeeper won four Campeonato Paranaense titles, a Copa Paraná title, the Copa Libertadores qualifier, and finally the historic Série A title in 2001, making him the player with the most titles for the red-and-black team: eight in total. He is also the ninth-most capped player for Athletico, with 303 appearances.
After witnessing the beginning of Athletico's rise in the Brazilian scene, the idol lamented the relegation to Série B in its centennial year. "We're sad about what happened, but we're hopeful that things will change this year. We hope for a good run in Série B and also for the title to be crowned champions so we can bounce back. We're rooting for the best possible outcome," he said.
Flávio died on Sunday (13) at the age of 54. The former goalkeeper had been treating prostate cancer diagnosed last year, lost more than 40 kilos, was hospitalized for three months, but subsequently showed improvement in his health.
However, the cancer returned with a vengeance.
On social media, Athletico mourned the death of their idol. "Goalkeeper of the 2001 Brazilian championship, Flávio Pantera left us this Sunday at the age of 54. Flávio leaves a legacy and a history with the red and black jersey that will never be erased."
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