Preguinho

João Coelho Neto, affectionately known as Preguinho, was born on February 8, 1905, in Rio de Janeiro. He was not only a talented footballer but also excelled in various sports, including volleyball, beach volleyball, basketball, athletics, and swimming. His diverse athletic prowess set him apart in the world of Brazilian sports.

Preguinho's football career spanned from 1925 to 1938, during which he made a significant impact at Fluminense, scoring an impressive one hundred eighty-four goals. His contributions to the team solidified his status as one of the club's legends.

On the international stage, Preguinho was a pioneer for Brazil, participating in the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930. He made history as the first captain of the Brazil national team, scoring the nation's first-ever goal in a World Cup match against Yugoslavia, followed by two additional goals in a game against Bolivia.

After a remarkable life dedicated to sports, Preguinho passed away on September 29, 1979, at the age of seventy-four. In recognition of his legacy, Fluminense honored him with a statue, and his life was celebrated in a television program produced by Carlos Niemeyer for Canal 100, directed by Carlos Leonam and Oswaldo Caldeira.