Dona Lita, Romário's mother, dies at age 86

Going viral during the 1994 World Cup, Manuela Ladislau passed away this Thursday, 4th, in news confirmed by her son, Romário, on social media. Dona Lita, as she was known, became a symbol of Brazil's victory in the World Cup, cited for having broken bottles to celebrate the goals scored by Baixinho in the competition.

Without any confirmation of the cause of death, the former player lamented what happened, calling her “best friend” and “teacher of life”, in addition to ensuring that he remains with his mother in his heart.

With infinite sadness and already with immense longing, I physically say goodbye to my great love, my queen, the woman who gave me life and guided me along the path of honesty. My beloved mother went to meet Father in Heaven. The pain we feel at this moment is inexplicable, but… pic.twitter.com/sr1U1aRGq7

— Romário (@RomarioOnze) April 4, 2024

See Romário’s text in full:

“With infinite sadness and already with immense longing, I physically say goodbye to my great love, my queen, the woman who gave me life and guided me along the path of honesty. My beloved mother went to meet Father in Heaven. The pain we feel at this moment is inexplicable, but we are certain that the love that Dona Lita gave us is the most valuable thing we have.

Everyone who follows me knows my mother because she was always with me. She was the one who got emotional, moved me and moved Brazil by breaking bottles with each of my goals in the 94 World Cup. Today, I lost my mother, but I also lost my best friend, my most excited fan and my life teacher.

Mom, you will live forever in our hearts. Thank you for everything!!! Rest in peace beside the Lord and hug my father for us. Love you forever!

I ask Heavenly Father for strength to go through this difficult time with my family.”