Novorizontino made a sensational start to their match against Sport Recife in the Brazilian second division, taking the lead without even touching the ball. Just 18 seconds into the game, Sport defender Alisson Cassiano scored an own goal that left both teams stunned.
The bizarre incident occurred after kick-off, as Sport passed the ball around their defense under pressure from Novorizontino. Cassiano, in an attempt to pass the ball back to his goalkeeper Caique Franca, made a fatal mistake. However, Franca had moved towards the edge of his box, leaving him out of reach of Cassiano’s pass. The ball rolled into an empty net, giving Novorizontino an unexpected advantage.
The video of the own goal quickly went viral on social media, with fans expressing their disbelief at the blunder. Opinions were divided on who was to blame, with some criticizing Cassiano for his poor decision-making and others calling for Franca to be sacked as goalkeeper.
Despite the early setback, Sport did manage to pull a goal back during the second half but failed to find an equalizer. Novorizontino added a second goal from the penalty spot before half-time, securing a 2-1 victory in the end.
The match was not without further drama, as both teams ended up with ten men before the final whistle. It was a heated encounter that showcased the intensity and competitiveness of Brazilian football.
While own goals are not uncommon in football, this particular incident stood out due to its timing and the complete lack of any opposition involvement. It serves as a reminder that even the most experienced players can make costly errors under pressure.
This incident also highlights the importance of communication and coordination between teammates on the field. In this case, a lack of awareness and misjudgment led to a disastrous outcome for Sport Recife.
Football is a game that can be both thrilling and unpredictable. Moments like these capture the attention of fans around the world and remind us why we love the sport. It’s a reminder that even the most routine actions can have unexpected consequences, adding to the drama and excitement of the game.