Leivinha

Brazilian forward and winger, winner of titles in Brazil and Spain.

João Leiva Campos Filho (11 September 1949 – 4 June 2026), usually called Leivinha (Little Leiva), was a Brazilian footballer who played as a forward or as a winger.

Quick Facts

Position: Attacking Midfielder; Winger
Nickname origin: Derived from 'Leão' (Lion)
Status: Retired Legend
Key contribution: Creative playmaking during championship campaigns

Lore & Background

Leivinha played for Linense, Portuguesa, Palmeiras, Atlético de Madrid and São Paulo, winning national championships in both Brazil and Spain, as well as the UEFA and Intercontinental Cups. He achieved 21 international caps for Brazil from June 1972 until June 1974, scoring seven goals, and appeared in three games at the 1974 FIFA World Cup. He was the uncle of former Grêmio and Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva.

Reader's Guide

Leivinha's club career included winning the Brazilian Série A with Palmeiras in 1972 and 1973, the São Paulo State League in 1972 and 1974, the Spanish League with Atlético Madrid in 1976–77, and the Copa del Rey in 1975–76. He also won the Independence Cup with Brazil in 1972.