Sporting legends : Roberto Falcao - Brazilian football great , Career HLs & video

 

Paulo Roberto Falcão, often simply known as Roberto Falcão, is one of Brazil’s most celebrated midfielders, renowned for his elegance, intelligence, and technical proficiency on the football field. Born on October 16, 1953, Falcão gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s as a vital player for both his club and country. His time with clubs such as Internacional and AS Roma, along with his contribution to the Brazilian national team, cemented his place as a football legend.

Style of Play

Falcão was the epitome of a complete central midfielder, known for his combination of creative vision, defensive intelligence, and technical finesse. His ability to read the game and dictate its tempo from midfield made him the focal point of many successful teams. As a deep-lying playmaker, Falcão possessed excellent passing range, the ability to control the pace of matches, and an eye for goal. His elegance on the ball, combined with his tactical understanding, allowed him to excel as both a playmaker and a midfielder with defensive duties. He was also known for his powerful long-range shooting and timely runs into the box, making him a goal threat from midfield.

Career Highlights

Clubs

1. Internacional (1973–1980)

Falcão rose to prominence with Internacional, where he helped the team dominate Brazilian football in the late 1970s. He won three Campeonato Brasileiro Série A titles with the club (1975, 1976, and 1979) and became a legend of the club due to his extraordinary performances. His leadership and midfield play were instrumental in these triumphs, making him a beloved figure among fans.

2. AS Roma (1980–1985)

In 1980, Falcão made a move to Europe, joining AS Roma in Italy. His time at Roma was nothing short of iconic. He became a pivotal figure in the team’s success, helping them win the Serie A title in 1983, Roma's first league title in 41 years. Falcão was adored by the Roma faithful, who nicknamed him "The Eighth King of Rome" due to his majestic performances in midfield. He was also a key figure in leading Roma to the European Cup final in 1984, though they narrowly lost to Liverpool on penalties. His vision, passing, and leadership made him one of the best foreign players in Italian football during that era.

3. São Paulo (1985)

Falcão returned to Brazil in 1985 and briefly played for São Paulo, further contributing to Brazilian football before retiring from playing.

National Team Falcão was an integral part of the Brazilian national team, most notably during the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain. Although Brazil did not win the tournament, Falcão’s performances were widely praised. He was a key player in one of the greatest Brazilian teams of all time, alongside legends like Zico, Socrates, and Eder. His goal against Italy in the quarterfinals of the 1982 World Cup, a powerful strike from outside the box, is one of the most iconic moments in the tournament’s history.

Falcão’s elegance and technical abilities symbolized the "Joga Bonito" (beautiful football) philosophy, making him a key figure in the Brazilian team's attacking style. He earned 34 caps and scored 6 goals for Brazil from 1976 to 1986, representing his nation with distinction in both the World Cup and Copa América.

Great Goals

1. Goal vs. Italy (1982 World Cup) Falcão's goal against Italy in the 1982 World Cup quarterfinal is one of the standout moments of his career. It was a powerful, driven shot from just outside the penalty area that gave Italy’s defense no chance. Although Brazil lost the match, this goal remains an iconic memory in World Cup history.

2. Roma vs. Juventus (Serie A, 1983) Falcão scored a memorable goal in a 2-2 draw against Juventus during Roma’s title-winning season in 1983. His calm and composed finish in a pressure-packed game demonstrated his technical mastery and ability to deliver in big moments.

Olympic & World Titles

Falcão did not win any Olympic titles, as he did not participate in the Olympic football tournaments. His international career is most remembered for his participation in the 1982 FIFA World Cup, although Brazil did not win the tournament. He is also remembered for his contributions to Brazil’s national team in the Copa América.

Legacy

Roberto Falcão is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time. His combination of grace, vision, and football intelligence made him a unique player in both Brazilian and European football. Although he never won the World Cup, his performances in the 1982 tournament remain legendary, and his influence on the game continues to be felt.

At AS Roma, Falcão is still considered one of the club’s greatest-ever players, and his contributions to their 1983 Serie A title have earned him a lasting legacy in Italian football. His nickname as "The Eighth King of Rome" reflects the high regard in which he is held.

In retirement, Falcão moved into coaching and football commentary, continuing to share his deep understanding of the game. His elegant style of play and contributions to both club and country ensure that he remains a symbol of the beauty of football, especially during an era when the Brazilian team was known for its artistic and attacking style.

Watch Falcao's  superb soccer skills in below  video