Crizam César de Oliveira Filho, recognized professionally as Zinho, established a career as a left-footed midfielder known for precise ball distribution and tempo control. Born in Nova Iguaçu, Brazil, on 17 June 1967, he amassed more than 1,000 official career appearances, marking him as one of the most active participants in the history of professional association football.
Domestic Success in Brazil
Zinho secured four Campeonato Brasileiro Série A titles during his time in his home country. His domestic success began with Flamengo, where he claimed the title in 1992, alongside three Campeonato Carioca victories between 1986 and 2004. Moving to Palmeiras, he added two more national league championships in 1993 and 1994, complemented by the 1999 Copa Libertadores. Further honors included the 2003 Campeonato Brasileiro with Cruzeiro and a 2001 Copa do Brasil victory with Grêmio.
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Representing the Brazilian national team, Zinho earned 55 caps between March 1989 and February 1998, netting seven goals. His most significant achievement occurred at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where he started all seven matches for the tournament-winning squad. Additionally, he participated in the 1993 and 1995 Copa América, securing a runners-up medal in the latter event, and helped Brazil achieve a third-place finish at the 1998 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Global Career Path
Beyond his extensive work in Brazil, Zinho pursued opportunities in international leagues. In Japan, he competed for Yokohama Flügels, winning the 1995 Asian Cup Winners' Cup and the Asian Super Cup. His professional journey also included a tenure with Miami FC. By the conclusion of his playing years, he had contributed to various clubs including Nova Iguaçu, eventually transitioning into roles as a football pundit and coach.
Fast facts
- Born: 17 June 1967, Nova Iguaçu, Brazil
- Primary Position: Midfielder
- 1994 FIFA World Cup titles: 1
- Total international caps: 55
- Professional debut year: 1986
- Notable clubs: Flamengo, Palmeiras, Yokohama Flügels, Grêmio, Cruzeiro
- Career milestone: Over 1,000 career appearances
- Occupations: Football player, coach, and pundit
Questions readers ask
How many times did Zinho win the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A?
He won the title four times, twice with Palmeiras and once each with Flamengo and Cruzeiro.
Did Zinho play in international club competitions outside Brazil?
Yes, he played for the Japanese club Yokohama Flügels, where he won the Asian Cup Winners' Cup and the Asian Super Cup in 1995.
