Leonardo Lourenco Bastos Former Brazilian footballer, left back. Date of Birth: 06.07.1975 Country: Brazil

1. Biography of Leonardo Lorenzo Bastos
2. Early Career
3. Success at Santos
4. Move to Benfica
5. Return to Santos
6. Success in Copa Libertadores
7. National Team Career

Biography of Leonardo Lorenzo Bastos

Leonardo Lorenzo Bastos, also known as Leo, is a former Brazilian football player who played as a left-back. He is the cousin of another famous football player, Tite.

Early Career

Leo began his career at the club "Americano" before moving to "União San-Juan" along with several other players from the team. He then joined "Palmeiras" but had limited opportunities to showcase his skills under the head coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari, during his six months with the team.

Success at Santos

In 2000, Leo transferred to the club "Santos" where he achieved great success. He won two Brazilian Championships (2002 and 2004), finished as a runner-up in the championship (2003), and reached the final of the Copa Libertadores (2003). During his five years at Santos, Leo played 280 matches and scored 20 goals, including decisive goals in the quarter-finals and final of the Brazilian Championship in 2002 against "São Paulo" and "Corinthians" respectively.

Move to Benfica

On July 17, 2005, Leo made a move to the Portuguese club "Benfica" for a transfer fee of 250,000 euros. He spent three seasons at Benfica, playing 82 matches and scoring 2 goals. In the 2006/2007 season, Leo was voted the best player of Benfica by the supporters.

Return to Santos

After his contract with Benfica expired, Leo left Portugal due to family issues. On January 21, he returned to "Santos" and on August 26, 2009, he played his 300th match for the club against Internacional, which ended in a 3-3 draw.

Success in Copa Libertadores

In 2011, Leo played a crucial role in helping Santos win the Copa Libertadores for the first time in 48 years. He was suspended for the first leg of the final against "Peñarol," but played the full second leg at the Pacaembu Stadium in São Paulo.

National Team Career

Leo made his debut for the Brazilian national team on May 26, 2001, in a friendly match against "Tokyo Verdy". He played a total of 16 matches for the national team.