Carlos Alberto, who scored one of the greatest goals in World Cup history while captaining Brazil to glory in the 1970 final against Italy, has died aged 72 following a heart attack.
The marauding right back scored his team’s fourth goal in a 4-1 win over Italy in Mexico’s Azteca Stadium, a thumping drive that ended a move involving eight players, before hoisting the Jules Rimet trophy as Brazil won the title for the third time.
“I am saddened by the death of my friend and brother Carlos Alberto, our beloved Captain, and I remember the times that we were together at Santos, Brazil and the (New York) Cosmos, where we formed a winning partnership,” Pele said in one of the many tributes from former greats.
Carlos Alberto was a classy defender who played for Fluminense, Santos, Flamengo and the Cosmos and earned the nickname ‘The Captain’ for his leadership qualities.
He won his first titles at Fluminense in his home city of Rio de Janeiro but his best days were at Santos where, alongside his friend Pele, he won two first division titles and five Sao Paulo state trophies.
The full back was also one of the first major football talents to play in the U.S. when he joined the Cosmos.
“We’re deeply saddened by the loss of Carlos Alberto, a legendary player and wonderful person,” the New York club said on Twitter. “He’ll always remain part of the Cosmos family.”
