Romerito facts for kids

Julio César Romero Insfrán (born on August 28, 1960), often called Romerito, is a famous former footballer from Paraguay. He played as a midfielder, which is a player who helps both defend and attack. Many people think he is one of the best football players in Paraguay's history.

In 2004, the legendary footballer Pelé named Romerito as one of the FIFA 100. This was a list of the 125 greatest living footballers at that time. Romerito is the only Paraguayan player on this special list.

Romerito's Football Journey

Romerito was born in Luque, Paraguay. He started his football career in 1977 with a local club called Sportivo Luqueño.

Early Success in Paraguay

By 1979, Romerito was playing so well that he joined the Paraguay national team. He played in the FIFA World Youth Championship, which is a big tournament for young players. He was seen as one of the best players there, just like Diego Maradona.

In the same year, Romerito helped Paraguay win the Copa América. This is a major football tournament for South American teams. He scored three important goals during the competition.

Playing in the United States

In 1980, Romerito moved to the United States to play for the New York Cosmos. This team was very famous and had many great players. He played alongside legends like Carlos Alberto from Brazil and Franz Beckenbauer from Germany. Both of them had led their countries to win the World Cup.

In 1980, Romerito scored the winning goal in the Soccer Bowl '80, helping his team beat Ft. Lauderdale 3–0.

Becoming a Star in Brazil

Later, Romerito moved to Brazil to play for Fluminense. In 1985, he was chosen as the South American Footballer of the Year. This award goes to the best player in South America.

He became a huge favorite with the fans. He led Fluminense to win the Campeonato Brasileiro, which is Brazil's top football league.

World Cup and Later Career

In 1986, Romerito was a key player for the Paraguay national team. He helped them reach the FIFA World Cup finals after 28 years! In the World Cup, he scored goals against Iraq and the host country, Mexico.

After playing a short time for FC Barcelona in Spain and Puebla F.C. in Mexico, Romerito returned to South America. He finished his career playing for teams like Olimpia, Club Cerro Corá, and Sportivo Luqueño in Paraguay. He also played for Deportes La Serena in Chile.

Throughout his career, Romerito scored more than 400 goals!

Achievements and Awards

Romerito won many important titles with his teams and received individual awards for his skills.

Team Trophies

• New York Cosmos
  • NASL: 1980, 1982
• Fluminense
  • Série A: 1984
  • Campeonato Carioca: 1984, 1985
• Barcelona
  • UEFA Cup Winners' Cup: 1988–89
• Puebla
  • Primera División: 1989–90
  • Copa Mexico: 1989–90
• Olimpia Asunción
  • Torneo República: 1992
• Paraguay National Team
  • Copa América: 1979

Individual Awards

• South American Footballer of the Year: 1985 (He also won a Silver Award in 1979)
• Paraguayan First Division top scorer: 1990
• FIFA top 125 greatest living footballers: 2004

Interesting Facts About Romerito

• Romerito is one of the top goal scorers for the Paraguay national team. He has scored 13 goals, placing him among the top three.
• After his football career, Romerito became involved in politics. He is a politician for the Colorado Party in his hometown of Luque. He works as a city counselor, helping to make decisions for the city.
• In September 2006, Romerito surprised many people by making his debut as a rock singer! He performed at a music festival in Paraguay called "Pilsen Rock." He sang with a popular local band called Revolber in front of 40,000 fans.

See also

In Spanish: Julio César Romero para niños