On June 7, 1970, in São Paulo, Brazil, Marcos Evangelista de Morais was born, known to the football world as Cafu – one of the best right-backs in history.
The Brazilian legend is remembered for his extraordinary career with both clubs and the Brazilian national team, with which he won the World Cup twice.
He remains the only footballer to have played in three consecutive World Cup finals, in 1994, 1998 and 2002.
Difficult childhood
His path to success was not easy. One of six children, Cafu grew up in the poor Jardim Irene favela in São Paulo.
He started playing football at an early age, enrolling in a football academy at the age of seven. He played for the youth teams of Nacional-SP, Portuguesa and Itaquaquecetuba, while also playing futsal for two years.
Despite his talent, he faced many rejections during his youth. In the early 1980s, he failed trials at major Brazilian clubs such as Corinthians, Palmeiras, Santos, Atlético Mineiro and Portuguesa. However, Cafu did not give up.
Great opportunity
His big break came in 1988, when he joined the São Paulo youth team. With this team he won the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior, paving the way for professional football.
At club level, Cafu made history with São Paulo, where he won the Copa Libertadores twice and the Intercontinental Cup. He later played for Zaragoza, Palmeiras, Roma and Milan.
In Italy, he won the Serie A title with Roma in 2001, while with Milan he was declared champion of Italy in 2004 and won the Champions League in 2007.
Legend of Brazil
He played 142 matches for Brazil, a record for many years among Brazilian footballers. He won the World Cup in 1994 and 2002, and in 2002 he led the national team as captain to the world title.
Cafu is remembered for his inexhaustible energy, speed, tactical discipline and ability to contribute equally in both defense and attack.
His story remains a rare example of perseverance and determination, as from a boy who was rejected by many clubs, he transformed into one of the greatest legends of world football.
