Rivaldo (1972- )

Brazilian footballer. An attacking midfielder who sometimes plays as a striker, he is renowned for his explosive pace, dribbling skills, and his powerful shooting and heading ability. He made his international debut in 1993, but it was not until the 1998 World Cup finals, when he was one of the tournament's outstanding players, that he established his reputation as a world-class talent. He helped Brazil to win the 2002 World Cup and was World and European Footballer of the Year in 1999.

Born in Recife, Brazil, he played for Paulista, Santa Cruz, Magri-Mirim, Corinthians, and Palmeiras, before being transferred to the Spanish side Deportivo La Coruña in 1996. He moved to Barcelona in 1997, and helped the Catalan club to the Spanish league title in 1998 and 1999. Also in 1999, he again helped Brazil win the South American Championship (the Copa America).