Carlos Alberto: Brazil legend dies aged 72 after heart attack

Carlos Alberto had a huge influence in Brazilian football not only for being one of the best right-backs to ever don the Brazil shirt, but also for being one of the most uncompromising voices of the game in his native country.

As a leader, his qualities were unquestionable, wearing the captain's armband in the legendary Brazil squad that won the Jules Rimet trophy in Mexico 46 years ago, exerting command over the likes of strong-minded players such as Pele, Gerson and Rivelino.
Alberto was a product of Brazil's famous marauding full-back lineage, but the difference was that he united fitness with the art.
Brazilians learned the hard way in the 1966 World Cup that style was not enough when they were easily outmuscled by European opponents and went out at the group stage.
'The Captain', as he was nicknamed by Brazilians, did not have the same success as a manager, but fans of Flamengo, the most-supported team in the country, have fond memories of his role in winning the 1983 national title.
As a coach or TV pundit, Alberto held no prisoners thanks to a fiery temper and a sharp sense of humour. In his trademark raspy voice, he would lambast directors, players and express certain despair with what he considered a fall in standards in Brazilian football.
I met Alberto several times and never left without some tasty quotes. The last time I saw him was month ago in Rio, the day after a round of the South American World Cup qualifiers, in the green room of a Brazilian TV station.
The national team had won a crucial away game against Ecuador and a huge sense of relief was in the air after a stumbling start in the tournament. But 'The Captain' was having none of it.

"I remember when beating those guys was not a reason to celebrate but an obligation," he said, just before letting his thunderous laugh rip.