Leônidas da Silva

Leônidas da Silva, the 'Black Diamond', was the first major idol of Brazilian football and one of the pioneers of the sport in the world, revolutionizing football with his acrobatic ability and being credited with the creation of the bicycle kick, one of the most spectacular moves in football. Top scorer of the 1938 World Cup in France with 7 goals, he was the great Brazilian star in a tournament in which Brazil finished in third place, captivating the world with his extraordinary technique. He played for the biggest Brazilian clubs of his time, including Flamengo and São Paulo, where he left an indelible mark. Leônidas represented a generation that paved the way for the great Brazilian talents that would come later, being a symbol of pride for Brazil's Black people.