Rivelino

Rivelino, born as Roberto Rivellino, is a Brazilian football legend known for his impeccable style and technique on the field. He was born on January 1, 1946, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and grew up in the working-class neighbourhood of Bom Retiro.

Rivelino began his professional football career in 1962 with Corinthians, one of the biggest football clubs in Brazil. He quickly established himself as a key player, impressing fans and critics alike with his dribbling skills and powerful left foot. In 1973, Rivelino signed with Fluminense, where he would spend the remainder of his career, retiring in 1981.

Rivelino was an integral part of the Brazilian national team that won the 1970 FIFA World Cup. He played alongside football greats such as Pele, Jairzinho, and Carlos Alberto, and his performances throughout the tournament were nothing short of exceptional. He scored three goals and provided several assists, including a memorable corner kick that led to Carlos Alberto's famous goal in the final against Italy.

Rivelino was known for his unique style of play, which combined agility, speed, and precision. He was particularly famous for his free kicks, which he executed with incredible accuracy and power. His trademark move was the "banana kick," which involved curving the ball around the wall and into the net, a skill that is still emulated by footballers around the world today.

Throughout his career, Rivelino won several accolades and awards, including the prestigious Ballon d'Or in 1973, which recognized him as the best player in Europe. He was also named the South American Footballer of the Year in 1974 and was inducted into the Brazilian Football Museum's Hall of Fame in 2006.

Rivelino's legacy extends far beyond his playing career. He has inspired generations of footballers in Brazil and around the world, and his contribution to the sport is immeasurable. He is a true icon of Brazilian football and a testament to the country's rich footballing heritage.