MORRISTOWN, N.J. (AP) – Brito, center back for the 1970 World Cup winning team, has died at the age of 86.
The Brazilian Football Federation announced that Brito died on Thursday. No further details were provided.
Brito appeared in 61 games for the national team from 1964 to 1972, including one at the 1966 World Cup, forming a formidable defense alongside Wilson Piazza in the process.
“Brito left us with one of the greatest defenders in the history of Brazilian football,” federation president Samir Zaud said in a statement. “His contribution to the 1970 World Cup victory will be forever remembered by all of us.”
Brito was also part of the Brazilian team that won the Copa Roca in 1971 and the Taça Independencia in 1972.
“I pay my respects to the idols of this country,” Zaud said. “May his fighting spirit be an inspiration to the players participating in the World Cup.”
Brazil, who have won the World Cup the most times with five, will aim for their sixth World Cup title starting with Saturday’s match against Morocco.
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