Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz has cited ‘carnival time in Brazil’ as the reason behind his goal celebration after scoring in Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Villa Park.
Villa were condemned to a third successive home defeat in all competitions after substitute Scott McTominay headed home a dramatic 86th-minute winner for Erik ten Hag’s side. United did look as though they would have to settle for a point after Luiz had brought Villa level just under 20 minutes earlier.
The midfielder turned the ball home from close range after United had failed to clear a corner convincingly. Villa had been behind since the 17th minute after Rasmus Hojlund had found space in the box to turn home his 11th goal of the season.
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After diverting Leon Bailey’s drive past United shot-stopper Andre Onana, Luiz, who has scored eight times in all competitions this season, celebrated by performing a shimmy with his chest in front of the Holte End. It was both a bizarre and unique celebration from the former Manchester City man, who was questioned about it on social media by former United defender Rio Ferdinand.
Posting an image of Luiz conducting his celebration on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Ferdinand said: “U ok @dgoficial,” accompanied by a crying emoji and three laughing faces.
Luiz responded to Ferdinand’s query just over 12 hours later, writing: “I’m good, thanks. It’s just carnival time in Brazil,” accompanied by the Brazilian flag emoji.
Though Villa, at the time of their equaliser, were full value for their goal, Luiz’s samba shimmy celebration turned out to be premature, with United restoring their lead 19 minutes later via McTominay’s eighth goal of the campaign. He rose highest to connect with Diogo Dalot’s pinpoint centre from the right and seal what was an unlikely victory.
Olivia Martin is a dedicated sports journalist based in the UK. With a passion for various athletic disciplines, she covers everything from major league championships to local sports events, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis.
