As a dad, there are countless lessons I want to impart on my children. From the importance of being kind to the value of hard work, I want to share life lessons that will help shape their character and prepare them for the challenges of life. I try to teach life lessons through age appropriate personal stories and historical events. Sometimes, it is hard to tell if the message is getting through. Now that my son is into soccer, I try to use the sport to teach him about the power of perseverance and never giving up. These attributes are exemplified in one of the greatest football match comebacks in history and the largest comeback in the UEFA Champions League history – La Remontada. Hence, it was time my son learned about La Remontada.
A Lesson Can Happen Anytime
It was early morning, I was in the kitchen preparing my son’s breakfast and lunch. Out of the blue, I thought of La Remontada. As my son was eating his oatmeal, I looked at him and said, “have we ever talked about La Remontada.” He looked at me confused and said “no, what’s that.” I explained “it was the greatest comeback in soccer history.” He seemed intrigued. Then, I explained it involved “Messi and Neymar Jr. when they played for Barcelona.” He was hooked. I explained La Remontada and promised we would watch a video about it later that night. Here is the story.
The Story
La Remontada refers to the historic comeback by FC Barcelona against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the 2016-2017 UEFA Champions League. It was a match that captured the hearts of football fans worldwide and demonstrated the true essence of sportsmanship and determination.
On the surface, the odds seemed insurmountable for Barcelona. In the first leg of the Round of 16, PSG had defeated Barcelona 4-0, putting them in a seemingly unassailable position. No team had ever come back from a 4-0 deficit. Barcelona would have to score more goals cumulatively in order to beat PSG. It meant Barcelona would have to score at least 5 goals going in to the second game and more if PSG scored. However, Barcelona led by the greats such as Messi, Suarez and Neymar refused to accept defeat.
The second match began with Barcelona dominating possession and scoring 3 goals. However, PSG struck in the 62nd minute and it appeared Barcelona’s chances were over. But Barcelona did not falter. They rallied and scored a goal in the final minutes of regulation time.
The match went into injury time, and it was Barcelona’s star forward, Neymar, who rose to the occasion. After having scored a stunning free-kick to level the aggregate score at 90’+1, he then assisted Sergi Roberto’s decisive goal in the 95th minute, completing Barcelona’s miraculous comeback and winning the match 6-1. Insanity ensued. Barcelona advanced to the quarter finals 6 – 5 on aggregate.
La Remontada was more than just a football match; it was a testament to the power of belief and resilience. It showed that no matter how dire the circumstances may seem, with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible. This is a lesson that transcends sports and is applicable to all aspects of life.
Lesson Learned
After my son came home from school, we went to the park and played soccer. We got home, ate dinner, he showered and started to unwind. He then asked me if we could watch the “Barcelona video.” Knowing what he meant, I found several inspirational La Remontada videos on YouTube. My son was mesmerized. After it was over, I just told him “you see why you never give up.” He nodded.
La Remontada made an impression on my son. If we are watching soccer and a team he likes is losing, my son reminds me of La Remontada. Lesson learned.
By sharing the story of La Remontada with our children, we can provide a relatable real-life example that teaches the values of determination, perseverance, and the belief that they can overcome the challenges that comes their way. We can show them that setbacks and obstacles are a natural part of life, but it is how we respond to them that defines us. It is a lesson that will stay with them for life and empower them to face the future with confidence and resilience.
the best!
Thank you!