Every four years, soccer fans gear up for the FIFA World Cup. The tournament is consistently the biggest global sporting event on offer. This year, the World Cup is being held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
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Unfortunately, opening night, which kicked off with a wild game between Mexico and South Africa, was marred by the death of Brito, a member of the Pele-led 1970 Brazilian World Cup-winning team. News of his death was posted by the Brazilian football federation. He died due to a battle with pneumonia.
Brito left us as one of the greatest defenders in the history of Brazilian football.
"Brito left us as one of the greatest defenders in the history of Brazilian football," the confederation's president, Samir Xaud, said in a statement, via ESPN. "His contribution to the 1970 World Cup victory will be eternally remembered by all of us."
Brito played in the heart of Brazil's defense during his prime. He was well-known for his physicality, jumping ability and how he read the game. He played in every minute of Brazil's run to the 1970 World Cup, earning a special place in soccer fans' hearts along the way.
It remains to be seen whether the Brazilian national team will pay tribute to Brito when they open up their World Cup campaign against Morocco on Sunday.
Brito Was More Than a World Cup Icon
Brito won more than just the 1970 World Cup during his time with Brazil. He also helped lead them to victories in the Copa Roca in '71 and the Taca Independencia in '72. In total, he made 61 appearances for the Brazilian national team between 1964 and 1972. It's worth noting that he wasn't part of the squad that lost the 1969 World Cup Final against England.
Nevertheless, Brito also enjoyed a successful club-level career. He spent most of his career playing in the Brazilian leagues, suiting up for giants such as Flamengo, Corinthians, and Vasco de Gama. However, later in his career, Brito did venture overseas, joining the Montreal Castors in Canada.
Currently, there is no further information surrounding Brito's death. Nor is there any information regarding an impending funeral or service. Those details will likely remain private.
