By David Gold
August 28 – A minute’s silence was observed at every Brazilian league match at the weekend after Félix, the country’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper in 1970, passed away aged 74.
Félix Miélli Venerando (pictured top) played in every match during the 1970 FIFA World Cup, including the 4-1 win over Italy in the final, which was considered the high point for that Brazilian side and one of the greatest performances of all time.
His skill during the tournament put an end to perceptions in Brazil that he was the side’s weak link.
He died following complications from emphysema, a lung complaint, and was lauded by the President of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), José Maria Marin.
“The supporters should be eternally grateful for the contribution Félix gave to the national team,” Marin said.
“He is an idol and will be greatly missed.”
São Paulo-born Félix (pictured above, back row, second from left), who earned more than 40 caps for his country, is the second of the 1970 team to pass away after full back Everaldo was killed in a car crash in 1974.
Félix was a heavy smoker who, on occasion, would take advantage of his team being on the attack during a match to light up a cigarette, his niece told Folha de São Paulo.
Félix played for Juventus in Italy, and Brazilian teams Portuguesa and Nacional before joining Rio giants Fluminense.
He won five Rio state championships with Fluminense and after his playing career ended he became a manager and goalkeeping coach.
Perhaps fittingly, the Tricolor Carioca went joint top of the Brazilian championship this weekend after beating Rio rivals Vasco de Gama 2-1.
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