Emotional tribute to Esquerdinha

As well as dramatic overtime win against ElPozo, the Palau Blaugrana was also the venue on Saturday for emotional scenes in farewell to Leandro Rodrigues, better known as Esquerdinha, the Brazilian pivot. 

Wearing the captain’s armband, he was given a guard of honour, and watched with tears in his eyes as the video scoreboard projected images of his glittering career at the club. 

Thank you, Esquerdinha

"I am very grateful to the club, the fans, the Dracs. It is a privilege to be applauded by everyone” he said as he collected a plaque with the word 'GRÀCIES' from director Aureli Mas.

The ovation went on and on as he received a commemorative FC Barcelona shirt from his family in one of the most touching moments of the night. 

“All of my emotions have come out” he said, adding that “this has been a lovely tribute but it doesn’t end here. We have to continue working for the semi-final.”