Spain’s FC Barcelona contingent went over to commiserate with Portugal fullback João Cancelo after Spain’s 1-0 win in the FIFA World Cup. The loss meant that the tournament was over for Cancelo. Portugal were considered to be one of the teams with a good chance of winning the tournament, albeit Spain were even stronger favorites.
Notably, Spain and Barça star Lamine Yamal gave Cancelo a hug after the elimination. Those who played a role in the match from the contingent also went to give him support:
Ferran Torres, Pedri, Dani Olmo and Pau Cubarsí. So too, did unused substitutes Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, and Gavi.
Gavi in particular made a post on his Instagram of Cancelo kissing his head. The caption read, “always together, brother.”
Apart from consoling a teammate during a difficult time and a sign of sportsmanship, the blaugrana’s reaction is being read as another hint that Cancelo is staying. Last season, he played on loan from Al Hilal. The latest rumors say that he is set to make the move permanent.
Spain are set to play Belgium in the World Cup quarter-finals. Portugal, for their part, are left to rue what if. Their talented squad, featuring no less than three UEFA Champions League winners and the Premier League Player of the Year, once again fell short.
