Flamengo mourns death of Brazil’s 1970 World Cup winner | OneFootball

Brito wore the Flamengo shirt for one year

A three-time world champion with Brazil in 1970, Brito passed away this Thursday (11) at the age of 86. The former center-back had been hospitalized since May 14 with pneumonia at a hospital on Ilha do Governador, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro. As a result, Flamengo paid tribute to the former player on social media.

“Clube de Regatas do Flamengo deeply regrets the passing of Hércules Brito Ruas, Brito, at the age of 86. A red-and-black player in the historic squad of the 1970 three-time championship, he was elected the best physically prepared player of that World Cup. During his time at Gávea, Brito honored and respected our Manto. Rest in peace, Three-Time Champion. Our condolences to his family and friends,” said the Red-and-Black club.

Who was Brito, the defender who won the 1970 World Cup?

Brito was one of the great defenders in the history of Brazilian football. Developed by Vasco, the club he played for for more than a decade, he stood out for his physical strength, leadership, and defensive solidity. Throughout his career, he also played for Flamengo, between 1969 and 1970, as well as Botafogo, Corinthians, and Cruzeiro, establishing himself as one of the leading defenders of his generation.

In addition, Brito played in the 1966 and 1970 World Cups for the Brazil national team. However, the former defender reached the peak of his career in Mexico, when he started every game in the campaign that won Brazil its third world title.

Forming the historic center-back partnership with defensive midfielder Piazza, who was playing out of position, Brito stood out for his physical presence and athletic preparation. Thus, between 1964 and 1972, the former defender wore the Brazil shirt in 61 matches, leaving his name etched in the history of Brazilian football.

How was Brito’s spell at Flamengo?

Brito arrived at Flamengo in 1969, hailed as one of the best defenders in the country. It is no surprise that the former center-back was called up for the 1970 World Cup as a Fla player. However, the preparation period for the tournament and a difficult relationship with coach Yustrich resulted in the player being loaned to Cruzeiro.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.