On February 9, 2008, Alexander Agustín dos Santos Álvez was born in Salto, Uruguay. At just 16 years old, his father, Jonathan David dos Santos Duré, had yet to debut professionally and was searching for ways to ensure a good life for his son. This is the story of a father and son who have moved Uruguayan football and starred in a historic encounter at Gran Parque Central of Nacional, one of the country's most iconic stadiums, on Sunday, August 2.
At 34 years old with long hair, Jonathan dos Santos was one of the key players for Club Atlético Progreso de Montevideo. The Uruguayan championship was in its seventh match when he arrived at Gran Parque Central, where Club Nacional de Football was playing as the home team. In this field, which hosted the 1930 World Cup, two Santos lived one of the most important moments of his life.
Facing his son Agustín, who wore the number 10 shirt for the “Tricolor” and was a creative midfielder for one of Uruguay's two largest clubs, Jonathan tried to focus on scoring a goal. However, he couldn't help but look at his son on the opposing team. This unique encounter in Uruguayan league generated intense emotions.
The match ended with Nacional winning 2-1, scored by Maximiliano Gómez. The iconic moment came when the game was over as Jonathan and his son hugged, stopping time. The two Santos, between joy and tears, did not let go of each other.
This father fulfilled the dream of playing professionally with his son while Agustín began a sports career as one of the country's most promising players, twice world champions. This story surely hasn't ended here, as Jonathan, at 34 years old, still has much football to give and his son continues his progress in the sport.
