Paulo Valentim

Paulo Valentim

Brazilian footballer, striker
Date of Birth: 20.11.1932
Country: Brazil

Content:
  1. Paulo Valentim: The Brazilian Tank Who Conquered Argentinian Football
  2. Early Career in Brazil
  3. International Recognition and Argentine Success
  4. Iconic Derby Performance
  5. Return to Brazil and Later Life
  6. Personal Life and Legacy

Paulo Valentim: The Brazilian Tank Who Conquered Argentinian Football

Paulo Valentim, born into a footballing family, embarked on his remarkable career as a striker. Known for his goal-scoring prowess and exceptional intellect, Valentim left an indelible mark on both Brazilian and Argentinian football.

Early Career in Brazil

Valentim began his professional journey with Central, a local club in his hometown. His talent caught the attention of Guaraní, where he spent five seasons honing his skills. In 1954, his father's connections landed him a contract at Atlético Mineiro. There, he played on the right wing and helped the team win three Minas Gerais State Championships.

In 1956, Valentim joined Botafogo, where he became the club's talisman. Under coach João Saldanha, he led Botafogo to the Rio de Janeiro State Championship in 1957, scoring an impressive five goals in the final against Fluminense. Valentim's 22 goals that season made him the state's top scorer.

International Recognition and Argentine Success

Valentim's performance at Botafogo earned him his first call-up to the Brazilian national team. He played in five matches during the 1959 South American Championship, scoring five goals. While he aspired to represent Brazil in the 1958 FIFA World Cup, an ankle injury dashed his hopes.

In 1960, Valentim received an offer from Boca Juniors in Argentina. He joined the club and formed a prolific strike partnership with veteran Ernesto Grillo. Valentim became a two-time Argentinian champion with Boca, winning the title in 1962 and 1964. He also clinched the club's top goalscorer award three times.

Iconic Derby Performance

On November 12, 1961, Valentim entered the history books by scoring three goals in the Superclásico, the derby match between Boca Juniors and River Plate. Boca won 3-1, and Valentim became the first player to score a hat-trick in the fixture. He ended his Boca career with an impressive tally of 71 goals in 105 matches.

Return to Brazil and Later Life

In 1965, Valentim returned to Brazil to join São Paulo. After a brief stint in Mexico with Atlante, he ended his career with Argentino de Quilmes in the Argentinian Second Division.

Post-retirement, Valentim faced financial struggles and worked as a dock laborer. In 1978, with the help of friends, he moved back to Argentina and took on coaching roles with Boca Juniors and the Argentina youth team.

However, Valentim's health deteriorated due to excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption. He succumbed to heart disease and hepatitis at the age of 50. Boca Juniors covered the expenses of his funeral.

Personal Life and Legacy

Valentim was married to Hilda, a former sex worker known as "Furacão" (Hurricane). Their controversial marriage influenced a novel by Robert Drummond and its subsequent television adaptation.

During his time at Boca Juniors, Hilda became a prominent figure, earning the nickname "Signora Valentim." A seat was reserved for her in the stadium's presidential box.

Valentim's legacy extends beyond his footballing achievements. His iconic performance in the Superclásico, his personal struggles, and his captivating relationship with Hilda have made him an enduring legend in the world of football.

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