An inconsolable David Seaman gave a heartfelt apology to England's supporters after his blunder saw England crash out of the World Cup today.
Seaman was caught out by a floated second half free-kick from Ronaldinho which flew over his head from 35 yards out.
The Arsenal goalkeeper was in tears at the final whistle and was consoled by a number of England players and goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence.
The 38-year-old, playing in what is likely to be his last major tournament, broke down for a second time when he spoke to the media after the match.
Seaman has been one of the stars of the tournament for England but that was scant consolation for the player who took full responsibility for England's exit.
"It is very hard to take but that's just life as a goalkeeper. The main thing is I want to say sorry to the fans," he said.
Seaman then choked back the tears with his head bowed before adding: "I want to say sorry to the people I've let down today. That's just the way it goes."
It will be sad if Seaman's 73rd appearance for his country - 14 years after his debut - is the one for which he is best remembered.
But England team-mate Teddy Sheringham, the second oldest member of the squad after Seaman, said the Arsenal man has nothing to be ashamed of.
"David's upset but it is not his fault. Things like that happen. In my opinion he is still the world's best," Sheringham said.
"As for myself and David, we don't know if this will be our last chance. You never know what happens and we will see."
Ronaldinho, meanwhile, maintained had been shooting for goal with his spectacular free kick winner that caught out Seaman.
The 22-year-old Paris Saint Germain attacker, later sent off just minutes after scoring, had been told by Brazil skipper Cafu to try to catch the England goalkeeper off his line as he lined up the 50th-minute dead ball effort from 35 yards out on the right.
"I was going for it. Cafu came up to me and said I should try for the goal because Seaman was standing off his line. I went for it and it came off," said Ronaldinho.