The 1998 Brazilian World Cup runner-up has passed away.
Though he may not have been the most famous Brazilian player from the 1998 World Cup in France, Zé Carlos, the former 55-year-old full-back, leaves behind a memorable legacy. This Friday morning, he passed away following a cardiac arrest in his sleep—a tragic news confirmed by Brazilian media outlet Globoesporte.
Zé Carlos, whose quiet demeanor never overshadowed his talent, played a key role in Brazil’s journey to the 1998 World Cup final. His passing serves as a reminder of how that squad, which thrilled football fans around the globe, remains etched in collective memory.
Zé Carlos made his mark primarily on the national stage with São Paulo, where his consistent and solid performances unexpectedly earned him a spot in Brazil’s squad for the 1998 World Cup. This selection surprised many observers, given the intense competition for the right-back position, yet Zé Carlos managed to win over the Seleção’s selectors.
Named a World Cup runner-up after the tournament, he was best known as Cafu’s backup, one of the team’s core players. Zé Carlos even found himself in the spotlight when he was chosen to start in the semifinal against the Netherlands, stepping in due to Cafu’s suspension. This pivotal match allowed him to showcase his skills on the international stage and add a memorable chapter to his career.
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