AC Milan’s Mario Balotelli, Stephan El Shaarawy, and Mbaye Niang straight chillin’ on the train. Guess they got bored during the trip?

In times such as this past weekend when tragedy struck in Newtown, CT, soccer and sports in general take a backseat to reflecting on what’s truly important in our lives. And though the games still had to be played, there were several acts of class on display across Europe to send prayers and condolences to the victims and their families across the Atlantic.

From the QPR players insisting on wearing black armbands in their match versus Fulham, to an emotional moment of silence at Celtic Park, to Milan’s Antonio Nocerino’s goal dedication, take a look at some of the touching images over the weekend.

The moment of silence prior to Celtic’s match against St. Mirren.

Queens Park Rangers, Fulham, Liverpool and Aston Villa players all wore black armbands in tribute to the Sandy Hook victims.

Nocerino dedicated his goal to the children and their families, saying, “everything I did today was only for them.”

Nov

Check out Philippe Mexes of Milan with the goal of the day! His bicycle kick from the edge of the box reminds us of Ibrahimovic, but for my money this one’s even better.

Mexes takes the ball with a classy first touch, chesting it to himself, then he beats the goalkeeper who’s actually in the net. Oh yeah, and this is coming from a defender!

Brilliant stuff!