Apologies if this is a Romario...

[ManxRed]

Romario goes past 1,000 goals barrier 'unofficially'

 

The former Brazilian striker Romario scored what he says is the 1,000th goal of his career in a match in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday.

 

The only other player to have secured this record is Brazilian legend Pele.

 

But the 41-year-old admits his tally includes goals scored in youth, friendly and testimonial games.

 

Romario's 1,000th goal came from a penalty kick in the game between Vasco da Gama and Sport of Recife in the Brazilian national championship.

 

The fact that it was a penalty did not diminish the joy of his team-mates and the player was immediately mobbed.

 

Surrounded by television crews, Romario dedicated the goal to his family and children and said it marked an extraordinary moment in his life.

 

His wife and children were among those who came onto the pitch and it took 16 minutes before the game could be restarted.

 

Despite the hype, there is controversy surrounding the achievement as Romario's tally is not recognised by football's international governing body, Fifa, which says it only counts goals scored in official tournaments.

 

However, given his long and highly successful career, there will be few who begrudge the player his night of glory.