Roberto Carlos da Silva

Roberto Carlos, full name Roberto Carlos da Silva (b. April 10, 1973 in Garça, São Paulo), is a Brazilian footballer. This short, but strong and very fast left wing-back is known for his trademark super-powerful low-driving free-kicks. He currently plays for Real Madrid where he has extended his contract until 2007.

Related Topics:
April 10 - 1973 - Garça - São Paulo - Brazilian - Football - Free-kick - Real Madrid

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On the club level, Roberto Carlos has played for Palmeiras, Internazionale, and Real Madrid. He has 105 caps for Brazil, and helped his country win the World Cup in 2002 after finishing second in 1998. He is perhaps most famous for scoring an incredible 25-yard free kick against France in 1997, when the ball seemed to be heading wide before taking an amazing left swerve, leaving goalkeeper Fabien Barthez stunned.

Related Topics:
Palmeiras - Internazionale - Brazil - World Cup - 2002 - 1998 - France - Fabien Barthez

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He was named by Pelé as one of the top 125 greatest living footballers in March 2004. Roberto Carlos is divorced with three children.

Related Topics:
Pelé - Top 125 greatest living footballers - 2004

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On June 24, 2005, Roberto Carlos was robbed by two gunmen while doing a live radio interview. However, the robbers did not harm him, merely taking his watch and the interviewer's cellphone.

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June 24 - 2005

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On August 2, 2005, Roberto Carlos received Spanish citizenship but maintained his Brazilian nationality as well. This proved important for Real, as it meant that he now counted as a European Union player, opening up one of the club's allowed three slots for non-EU players and enabling Real to sign fellow Brazilian star Robinho.

Related Topics:
European Union - Robinho

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