Emerson Leão

Emerson Leão is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of Brazilian football. Born in Paranaguá, in Paraná, on July 11, 1949, he stood out for exceptional reflexes, vocal leadership on the field and the ability to command the defense with uncommon authority for the time. Leão participated in three World Cups with the Brazilian National Team — 1970, 1974 and 1978 — being champion in the Mexican edition of 1970, where he was part of the legendary squad that won the three-time world championship. In 1978, in Argentina, he was a starter and performed at a high level, with Brazil finishing in third place. At Palmeiras, the club where he lived the most victorious phase of his career, Leão was central to four consecutive Brazilian Championship titles between 1972 and 1976, in addition to other state titles. His partnership with Palmeiras' defense during this period is considered one of the most solid in the club's history. After ending his playing career, Leão continued as a coach, passing through dozens of Brazilian clubs and reaching the highest position: he managed the Brazilian National Team between 1998 and 2000, in a period of transition after the 1998 World Cup.