Branco

Branco was one of the greatest left-backs in Brazilian football, famous for his precise free-kick goals and decisive contribution to Brazil's fourth World Cup title in 1994. Born in Bagé, Rio Grande do Sul, on April 4, 1964, he built a successful career in Brazil and Europe. His most glorious moment with the Brazilian national team came at the 1994 World Cup in the United States. His free-kick goal in the Round of 16 against the Americans is remembered as one of the most beautiful goals Brazil scored in the tournament. The ball flew over the barrier and lobbed the American goalkeeper, in a play that became a symbol of the fourth World Cup title. After ending his playing career, Branco moved into coaching. He took over the Brazilian Under-20 national team and led the squad to the runners-up finish at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in 2011 in Colombia, demonstrating the same competence that distinguished him on the field.