Garrincha was a Brazilian footballer who is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. He was born on October 28, 1933, in Pau Grande, Brazil, and grew up in poverty. Despite this, he found solace in football and began playing as a child in the streets of his hometown.
The Beginning of a Legend
Garrincha’s talent was quickly recognized, and he signed his first professional contract with Botafogo in 1953. He quickly established himself as a key player, and his performances caught the attention of the Brazilian national team. He was selected for the 1958 World Cup squad, and it was there that he announced himself to the world.
Garrincha was an integral part of the Brazil team that won the World Cup in 1958. He played a key role in the final, scoring two goals as Brazil beat Sweden 5-2. He was awarded the Best Player of the Tournament and named in the Team of the Tournament.
Decline and Downfall
After the 1958 World Cup, Garrincha’s career began to decline. He struggled with injuries, alcoholism, and personal problems. Despite this, he continued to play for Brazil, and he was a key player in the team that won the 1962 World Cup.
However, his personal problems continued to mount, and his behavior became increasingly erratic. He was involved in a number of off-field incidents, and his drinking became a serious problem. He was often late for training and missed matches, and his relationship with his club, Botafogo, began to deteriorate.
In 1966, Garrincha was selected for the Brazilian World Cup squad, but he was a shadow of his former self. He played in only one match and was sent off after a reckless challenge. Brazil were knocked out in the group stages, and Garrincha retired from international football.
Garrincha continued to play for club sides in Brazil and other countries, but his performances were inconsistent. He retired from football in 1972, and his personal problems continued to mount. He struggled with alcoholism and financial difficulties, and he died of liver cirrhosis in 1983 at the age of 49.
Despite his personal problems and decline in later years, Garrincha remains a legend of Brazilian football. His performances in the 1958 and 1962 World Cups were some of the greatest in the history of the tournament, and his skill and flair on the field inspired a generation of players. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest players to have ever played the game.
He was expired in 20 January 1983.
