Rise to Stardom: Bebeto’s football journey began at the youth academy of Vitória, a local club in Bahia. His performances there quickly caught the attention of bigger clubs, and he soon made the move to Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most prestigious teams. It was here that Bebeto truly began to make a name for himself, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess and becoming a fan favorite.
His career took off when he moved to Vasco da Gama in 1989. Bebeto’s ability to find the back of the net, combined with his technical skill and vision, made him one of the most feared forwards in the Brazilian league. His success at the club level earned him a spot on the Brazilian national team.
International Success: Bebeto’s international career is most famously remembered for his role in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup victory in the United States. Paired with Romário, Bebeto formed a lethal strike partnership that led Brazil to its fourth World Cup title. His celebration after scoring against the Netherlands, where he mimicked rocking a baby, became iconic and is often remembered as one of the most famous moments in World Cup history. The gesture was a tribute to his newborn son, Matheus, and it symbolized the balance he maintained between his personal and professional life.
Career Challenges and Later Years: While Bebeto enjoyed tremendous success on the field, his career was not without challenges. His move to Europe, where he played for Deportivo La Coruña, was initially met with skepticism. However, he silenced critics by leading the club to its first major title, the Copa del Rey, in 1995. His time in Spain solidified his status as a world-class striker.
Personal Life: Bebeto is married to Denise de Oliveira, and the couple has three children. His son, Matheus, followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a career in football, playing as a midfielder for several Brazilian clubs.
Despite his fame, Bebeto has always been known for his humility and close ties to his family. He remains an active figure in Brazilian football and is often seen attending events and matches, contributing to the sport that gave him so much.
Legacy: Bebeto’s legacy in football is marked by his incredible goal-scoring ability, his memorable World Cup performances, and his dedication to the sport both on and off the field. He is remembered as one of Brazil’s greatest forwards and a player who brought joy to fans around the world with his skill and passion for the game.
Real Name: José Roberto Gama de Oliveira
Date of Birth: February 16, 1964
Birth Place: Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Residence: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Profession: Retired Professional Footballer, Politician
Nationality: Brazilian
Religion: Roman Catholic
Partner: Denise de Oliveira
Father: Name not publicly known
Mother: Name not publicly known
Horoscope: Aquarius
Age: 60 (as of 2024)
Weight: Approximately 73 kg (161 lbs)
Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
Body Type: Athletic
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Black (now greying)