With 142 appearances for the Brazil national team, Cafu holds the record as the most-capped player in the history of his nation. A right-back noted for his pace and energetic runs along the flank, he is the only player to have participated in three consecutive FIFA World Cup finals between 1994 and 2006.
Early Development and Breakthrough
Born on 7 June 1970 in São Paulo, Marcos Evangelista de Morais grew up in the Jardim Irene favela. Despite rejection from youth squads at clubs including Corinthians, Santos, and Palmeiras, he joined São Paulo in 1988. Under the guidance of coach Telê Santana, he transitioned from right midfield to the full-back position. This move preceded back-to-back Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup titles in 1992 and 1993, followed by his recognition as the 1994 South American Footballer of the Year.
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After a brief period with Real Zaragoza and Juventude, and a return to Palmeiras, he joined AS Roma in 1997 for approximately €7.6 million. He became a fixture in the Serie A side, helping the club win the Scudetto. In 2003, he transitioned to AC Milan. During his tenure there, he secured a second Scudetto in 2004, the 2006–07 UEFA Champions League title, and the 2007 FIFA Club World Cup. He concluded his professional career on 16 May 2008, scoring a goal in a final 4–1 victory over Udinese.
International Milestones
He participated in four editions of the FIFA World Cup, securing championships in 1994 and 2002. During the latter tournament, he served as captain and lifted the trophy. His international record also includes victories in the 1997 and 1999 Copa América, and the 1997 FIFA Confederations Cup. His consistent performance at the elite level led to his inclusion in the 2020 Ballon d'Or Dream Team.
Fast facts
- Born: 7 June 1970, São Paulo
- Primary Position: Right-back
- Most-capped player for Brazil: 142 appearances
- World Cup titles: 1994, 2002
- European School of Economics alumnus
- Club highlights: São Paulo, AS Roma, AC Milan
- 2020 Ballon d'Or Dream Team inductee
Questions readers ask
How many World Cup finals did Cafu play in?
He is the only player in history to have appeared in three consecutive World Cup finals.
Did Cafu play for any clubs outside of Brazil and Italy?
Yes, he played for the Spanish club Real Zaragoza during the 1994–95 season.
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