LISBON: A tearful French fan, who was comforted by a boy wearing a Portuguese jersey after France lost the Euro 2016 final in images which went viral, has been invited to discover the country of Cristiano Ronaldo, courtesy of the Portuguese tourist board.
The images of a crying Anthony Vizzaccaro from Belfort in northeastern France being hugged by 10-year-old Mathis, the son of Portuguese immigrants, on the streets of Paris after the hosts lost the final were beamed around the world.
"We want to introduce him to the Portuguese public who are open, welcoming, ready to receive all visitors," Luis Araujo, president of Tourism of Portugal told AFP.
"He (Vizzaccaro) is very enthusiastic. I didn't expect this invitation," said the 25-year-old, who works in the automotive sector, as he arrived for a three-day stay in Lisbon.
On the programme, surf lessons, tasting the famous pastel de nata, a Portuguese pastry, and a visit to the 'City of Football' in Lisbon, where the French fan can pose alongside the Euro 2016 trophy which Portugal captured for the first time.
"A gesture like that remains etched in the memory," said the Frenchman, who remains touched by the boy's kindness.
"I think adults have taken their cue from this gesture, I hope in any case that it made them understand that we must comfort people even if you do not know them," the little boy told Portuguese television SIC.
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