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Gilmar was an unflappable presence for Brazil and Santos.Allsport Hulton/Archive |
Peerless among Brazilian goalkeepers, Gilmar also ranks as one of the all-time greats in his position. Even Lev Yashin of the Soviet Union considered him the best goalkeeper in the world in the late 50s and early 60s.
While the Brazilian World Cup-winning sides of 1958 and 1962 will always be associated with the flair and ingenuity of players such as Pele and Garrincha, Gilmar was a quiet hero in both competitions.
With safe hands and quick reflexes, Gilmar was an elegant and unflappable presence at the back, defending his goal with a serene confidence that seemed to flow forward through the rest of the team. His best tournament came in Sweden in 1958 when he conceded just four goals in six games.
In 1962 Gilmar achieved a remarkable treble, not only helping to defend Brazil's title in Chile but also winning the Copa Libertadores and World Club Cup with Santos. The Brazilian side would retain both honors in 1963.
Gilmar eventually win 103 caps for Brazil, bowing out from the World Cup stage, along with many other stars of his generation, at the 1966 finals.
