Ever Hugo Almeida Uruguayan and Paraguayan footballer, goalkeeper, coach Date of Birth: 01.07.1948 Country: Uruguay

1. Early Career
2. Transfer to Paraguay
3. Success at Olimpia
4. International Appearances
5. Coaching Career
6. Return to Paraguay
7. International Coaching Experience

Early Career

Ever Hugo Almeida, a Uruguayan-born goalkeeper who later represented Paraguay, began his footballing journey at the tender age of 17 with Montevideo's Cerro club in 1967. The club enjoyed relative success during his five-season tenure, finishing as runners-up to Uruguayan giants Peñarol and Nacional twice.

Transfer to Paraguay

In 1972, Almeida ventured outside of his native Uruguay to join Paraguayan club Guaraní. The following year, he made a pivotal move to Olimpia, a club that would become synonymous with his legacy.

Success at Olimpia

Olimpia, a powerhouse in Paraguayan football, witnessed an extraordinary era of dominance during Almeida's 18-year tenure as their goalkeeper. Under his watchful eye, the club captured an astonishing 10 league championships, including an impressive six consecutive titles. Almeida's prowess extended to the continental stage as he helped Olimpia triumph in two Copa Libertadores tournaments, including the prestigious 1979 edition that saw them defeat mighty River Plate. His record-breaking 113 appearances in the Copa Libertadores further solidified his status as a legend of the competition.

International Appearances

While his primary allegiance lay with Olimpia, Almeida also represented the Paraguayan national team, earning 20 caps. He played an instrumental role in the team's 1979 Copa América campaign, which ultimately ended in a quarter-final exit.

Coaching Career

Following his retirement from active playing, Almeida embarked on a highly successful coaching career. He began by leading Olimpia to the Paraguayan league title in 1993 and later oversaw the team's run to the quarterfinals of the 1999 Copa América in their homeland. Almeida's coaching prowess extended beyond Paraguay, as he guided Guatemalan club Municipal to five league championships and Ecuadorian club El Nacional to two league titles.

Return to Paraguay

In 2009, Almeida returned to Paraguay to assume the reins of Nacional, a club that had endured a 63-year championship drought. Under his guidance, they broke the jinx and claimed the league title in his debut season.

International Coaching Experience

In 2010, Almeida took on the role of Guatemala's national team coach, further expanding his coaching horizons.