Romeo Fernandes in action for (Picture via Globo)

Romeo Fernandes registered his name into the history books of Indian football after coming on as a substitute for his Atletico Paranaense teammate Rafinha in the second half, becoming the first Indian professional player to ever play in Brazil.

While donning the No. 17 shirt, Romeo’s entry was appreciated by the crowd as he was the first Indian to ever play in Brazil. His debut came during Atletico Paranaense’s last round tie of the against Nacional PR in the Campeonato Paranaense on Saturday after he was brought in the 69th minute of the match with his side already 4-0 up in the match.

The 22-year old footballer from Goa was one of Indian Super League’s best performers last year and is currently on loan from I-League club Dempo.

This news comes after Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu became the first Indian to start for a top-division European club a few days back after he had started for Norwegian club Stabaek.

Romeo Fernandes Debut !!! Romeo Fernandes Debut for Clube Atlético Paranaense (y) Here is the Video for you guys (y) Enjoy :) As Romeo Fernandes made History We dedicate this Video to those who missed the LIVE feed, Sit Back and enjoy the Entry of Our proud Star Romeo and some of his touches are included in this Highlights !!! #Proud and this video is to be kept for years to Come !!! <3 (y) #Indianfootball #romeodebut #romeofernandes #isl #romeo Posted by Kerala Blasters Fans Official on 2 May 2015

24' Romeo Fernandes entra no Furacão no lugar de Rafinha. Jogador faz história como o primeiro indiano a atuar no Brasil! — Atlético Paranaense (@atleticopr) May 2, 2015


Congratulations to Romeo for making us proud in Brazil ! Hopefully it's just the beginning of something new. #ProudIndian @BlueTigersIndia — Gurpreet Singh (@GurpreetGK) May 3, 2015