4-yr after error, Julio Cesar rises to the occasion

Four years after making the mistake that led to Brazil’s elimination from the World Cup, Julio Cesar came up big. Cesar made two saves in on Saturday’s penalty shootout victory and watched Chile’s last shot from the spot smack the post, helping save Brazil from a humiliating loss in the second round of the World Cup. Brazil ended up winning 3-2 on penalties to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the sixth straight time.

Cesar has always admitted his mistake on a ball crossed into the area four years ago led to the team’s 2-1 loss to the Netherlands in the quarterfinals in South Africa, something he said devastated him. This time, there were only tears of joy.

‘Four years ago I gave a very sad, angry and emotional interview,’ the goalkeeper said, wiping away tears. ‘And on Sunday I’m doing this again, with happiness. Only God and my family know what I went through and still go through on Sunday, but I know that my story is not over with the Selecao.’

‘My teammates are giving me a lot of strength so I can get on the field and give my best. There are only three steps left and I still want to be back here to give another interview, with Brazil partying,’ Cesar said.