People display a flag with an image of Brazil's 1982 World Cup captain Socrates before his funeral ceremony, in front of the cemetery in Ribeirao Preto Dec 4, 2011. [Photo/Agencies]

Chinese fans pay tribute to soccer great (from Sina Weibo)

"I was shocked by the death of Socrates. He was merely 57 years old. His way of taking a penalty kick, which never needed a run-up, was always great indulgent and enjoyment for fans. My deepest condolences for the soccer great!"

Han Qiaosheng, Veteran CCTV sports commentator

"I always wanted the No 8 jersey when playing soccer in middle school, because it is Socrates' number. He was God in my eyes at that time with whiskers and slim face, tall and handsome. I didn't think a PhD could play such fabulous and smart soccer until I knew him. He left us today. All the way best!"

Su Dong, Famous sports commentator

"Socrates was probably one of those soccer greats who had played the most games with Chinese players. He had almost played with every Chinese team, including most of the Chinese clubs and then Chinese national team and national youth team, during his China Tour in the 1980s."

Lu Yang, Reporter for Sina sports

 

"Socrates was one of my soccer enlightening stars. Thirty years ago, the midfield trio formed by Socrates, Falcao, Zico was the greatest, ever and never. Even Barca's trio cannot be paralleled with them."

Meng Xiaoqi, Deputy Editor-in-chief of Basketball

Brazil's Socrates (L) and Northern Ireland's Ian Stewart fight for the ball during their World Cup soccer match in Guadalajara in this June 12, 1986 file photo. [Photo/Agencies]