Brazil World Cup winner footballer Brito passes away

Brito, one of Brazil’s finest defenders and a key member of the country’s iconic 1970 FIFA World Cup-winning team, has passed away at the age of 86.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed his death in a statement on Thursday (June 11).

No details regarding the cause of death were disclosed.

CBF President Samir Xaud paid tribute to the former defender, describing him as one of the greatest players to have represented Brazil in defence.

“Brito was one of the finest defenders in Brazilian football history. His contribution to the game and to the national team will never be forgotten,” Xaud said in a condolence message.

Brito was a prominent figure in Brazil’s celebrated generation of footballers during the 1960s and early 1970s. He earned 61 caps for the national team between 1964 and 1972 and represented Brazil in both the 1966 FIFA World Cup and the 1970 FIFA World Cup.

Renowned for his strength, positioning and leadership at the back, Brito formed a formidable defensive partnership with Wilson Piazza, a duo that provided stability to Brazil’s defence during a highly competitive era.

The pinnacle of Brito’s career came in Mexico in 1970, when Brazil lifted its third World Cup title and cemented its place among football’s greatest teams. Brito played a crucial role in that historic squad, widely regarded as one of the finest teams ever assembled.

Beyond the World Cup triumph, he was also part of Brazil’s victorious campaigns in the Copa Roca and the Taça Independência.