When was Edvaldo Izidio Neto born?
Edvaldo Izidio Neto arrived in the world on the 12th of November 1934. He grew up in a region where football was more than a game, it was survival.
Questions about Vavá
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Why did Vavá get the nickname Peito de Aço?
His nickname Peito de Aço translates to Steel Chest and emerged from his physical playing style and resilience on the pitch. Scouts noticed how he absorbed heavy tackles without falling while playing for Sport Recife during the late 1940s.
How many World Cup finals did Vavá score in?
Vavá scored twice in the 1958 World Cup final against Sweden and once more in the 1962 final against Czechoslovakia. No player had ever scored in two consecutive finals before him until Pelé joined this elite group later.
What clubs did Vavá play for after leaving Brazil?
He moved north to Spain in 1958 to join Atlético Madrid where he played 71 matches between 1958 and 1961 with 31 goals. Later he returned to South America to play for Palmeiras and joined San Diego Toros in North America during 1968.
Did Vavá win any individual awards at the 1962 World Cup?
Vavá shared the Golden Boot award in 1962 after scoring four times in that edition of the event. He contributed five goals throughout the competition alongside Pelé to secure two gold medals for Brazil.