Edílson da Silva Ferreira, known by the nickname Capetinha, secured his place in football history as a forward who contributed to the 2002 FIFA World Cup victory. His professional journey spanned two decades, marked by standout periods at Brazilian clubs Palmeiras and Corinthians, as well as high-scoring loan stints in Portugal and Japan.
Early Career and Domestic Success
Born in Salvador in 1971, Edílson began his professional path after an invitation from manager Jaime Braga to join Industrial Esporte Clube in 1990. Following a stint at Tanabi, he moved to Guarani and subsequently Palmeiras in 1993. During his tenure at Palmeiras, he played alongside teammates such as Roberto Carlos and Zinho, winning two league titles and two Campeonato Paulista trophies. A brief 1994 loan to Benfica in Portugal resulted in 17 goals, making him the club's top scorer that season.
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Joining Corinthians in 1997, Edílson established a potent partnership with Marcelinho Carioca and Luizão. He secured the Bola de Ouro in 1998 and two consecutive league titles. His performance in the 2000 FIFA Club World Cup, where he scored twice against Real Madrid, earned him the tournament Golden Ball. Internationally, he earned 21 caps for Brazil, scoring 6 goals and participating in the squad that won the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Post-Football Media and Reality Television
After retiring in 2010 at age 39, Edílson transitioned into sports broadcasting. Starting in November 2019, he served as a pundit on the program Os Donos da Bola and later appeared on Jogo Aberto, Terceiro Tempo, and the RedeTV! show Galera Esporte Clube. He is currently a participant in Big Brother Brazil 26, where he competes for a R$ 5.5 million prize inside a studio in Curicica, Rio de Janeiro.
Fast facts
- Born: 17 September 1971, Salvador
- Primary Position: Forward
- Nickname: Capetinha
- 1998 Bola de Ouro winner
- 2002 FIFA World Cup champion
- Retired: 2010
- Professional debut: 1990
- Current status: Participant, Big Brother Brazil 26
Questions readers ask
Which major individual award did Edílson win in 1998?
He received the Bola de Ouro for his performance with Corinthians.
How many caps did Edílson earn with the national team?
He earned 21 caps and scored 6 goals for the Brazil national team.
