Batista (footballer, born 1955) facts for kids

João Batista da Silva (born March 8, 1955), known simply as Batista, is a famous former Brazilian football player. He played as a defensive midfielder, which means he helped protect his team's goal. Batista was known for his strong defense and for helping start attacks.

He played for the Brazilian team in the 1976 Summer Olympics. He also won a gold medal in football at the 1975 Pan American Games.

Batista's Club Career

Batista played for many different football clubs during his career. Most of his time was spent playing in Brazil. He also played in Italy and Portugal.

Playing for Internacional

His most important time was with Internacional from 1973 to 1981. With Internacional, he helped his team win the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A three times. These big wins happened in 1975, 1976, and 1979.

Other Clubs Batista Played For

After Internacional, Batista played for other teams like Grêmio (1982) and Palmeiras (1983). He also played for Lazio (1983–1985) and Avellino (1985) in Italy. Later, he joined Belenenses (1985–1987) in Portugal. He finished his career with Avaí (1988–1989) back in Brazil.

Batista's International Career

Batista also played for the Brazilian national team. He represented his country in important tournaments.

Olympics and Pan American Games

He was part of the Brazilian team at the 1976 Summer Olympics. Brazil finished in fourth place in that tournament. Before that, he won a gold medal in football at the 1975 Pan American Games. This was a great achievement for him and his team.

FIFA World Cup Appearances

Batista played in two FIFA World Cup tournaments. These are the biggest football competitions in the world. He played in the 1978 and 1982 World Cups.

1978 World Cup Performance

In the 1978 World Cup, Batista played in all seven of Brazil's matches. His team did not lose any games. They only let in three goals during the whole tournament. Brazil finished in third place in that World Cup.

1982 World Cup Moment

In the 1982 World Cup, Batista was a substitute player. He came into one game against Argentina. During this match, a famous event happened. The Argentine star player, Diego Maradona, was sent off (removed from the game) for a foul on Batista.

Copa América

Batista was also part of the Brazil team that finished third in the 1979 Copa América. This is another major football tournament in South America.

Batista's Playing Style

Batista was known for his role as a defensive midfielder. This position is very important for a team's defense.

• He was great at helping his team defend their goal.
• He could also win the ball back from opponents.
• After winning the ball, he would help start new attacks for his team.
• He was not known for being very fast, but his other skills made him a valuable player.

After Retirement from Football

After he stopped playing professional football, Batista started a new career. He now works as a commentator for a Brazilian TV channel called RBS. This channel is part of the big Globo TV network. He talks about football games and shares his expert opinions.

Batista's Football Honours

Batista won many awards and titles during his career.

Internacional

• Campeonato Gaúcho: 1975, 1976, 1978, 1981
• Campeonato Brasileiro Série A: 1975, 1976, 1979

Avaí

• Campeonato Catarinense: 1988

Individual Awards

• Bola de Prata: 1980, 1982

See also

In Spanish: Batista (futbolista) para niños