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Brito (footballer, born 1939) facts for kids

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Brito
Hércules de Brito Ruas.jpg
Brito in 1965
Personal information
Full name Hércules de Brito Ruas
Date of birth (1939-08-09)9 August 1939
Place of birth Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Date of death 11 June 2026(2026-06-11) (aged 86)
Place of death Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Height 1.89 m (6 ft 2 in)
Position(s) Centre back
Youth career
1955–1957 Vasco da Gama
Senior career*
Years Team Apps (Gls)
1957 Vasco da Gama
1958 Internacional
1959–1969 Vasco da Gama 405 (11)
1969–1970 Flamengo
1970 Cruzeiro
1971–1974 Botafogo
1974 Corinthians
1974 Atlético Paranaense
1975 Montreal Castors
1975 Deportivo Galicia
1975–1978 Democrata-GV
1979 Ríver
International career
1964–1972 Brazil 45 (1)
Medal record
Men's Football
Representing  Brazil
FIFA World Cup
Winner 1970 Mexico
*Club domestic league appearances and goals

Hércules de Brito Ruas, known simply as Brito, was a legendary Brazilian footballer. He was born on August 9, 1939, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and passed away on June 11, 2026. Brito was famous for his strong play as a central defender, a player who helps protect the goal. He is best remembered for being a key part of the amazing Brazilian team that won the 1970 FIFA World Cup in Mexico.

Brito's Club Adventures

Brito played for many famous clubs in Brazil during his career. He spent a lot of time with Vasco da Gama, where he played over 400 games! He also played for other big teams like Flamengo, Cruzeiro, and Botafogo.

In 1975, Brito even played football outside of Brazil. He joined a team called Montreal Castors in Canada. This team was part of the National Soccer League. Playing abroad showed that his talent was recognized internationally.

Playing for Brazil: A World Champion

Brito was a proud member of the Brazilian national team for many years. He played for his country from 1964 to 1972. During this time, he played in 45 international matches, which are often called "caps" in football.

His biggest achievement with Brazil was winning the 1970 FIFA World Cup in Mexico. This team is often considered one of the greatest football teams of all time! Brito was a strong defender in that historic squad. He also played in the 1966 FIFA World Cup, appearing in one game against Portugal.

Trophies and Achievements

Brito won many important trophies throughout his career. He achieved success both with his clubs and with the Brazilian national team.

With Vasco da Gama

  • Tournoi de Paris: 1957
  • Teresa Herrera Trophy: 1957
  • Torneio Rio–São Paulo: 1966
  • Taça Guanabara: 1965
  • Troféu IV Centenário do Rio: 1965
  • Torneio Pentagonal do México: 1963

With Brazil

Individual Awards

  • Placar's Bola de Prata (Silver Ball): 1970 - This award recognized him as one of the best players in the Brazilian league that year.

Remembering Brito

Brito passed away on June 11, 2026, in his hometown of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He was 86 years old. He died due to pneumonia. His legacy as a World Cup winner and a great defender will always be remembered in football history.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Brito (futbolista) para niños

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