Gilmar
The sober goalkeeper who won two World Cups for Brazil.
Gylmar dos Santos Neves (22 August 1930 – 25 August 2013), known simply as Gilmar, was a Brazilian footballer who played goalkeeper for Corinthians and Santos and was a member of the Brazil national team in three World Cups. He was elected the best Brazilian goalkeeper of the 20th century and one of the best in the world by the IFFHS. He is remembered for his sober style on the pitch and his peaceful personality.
Quick Facts
- Key partnership
- Goalkeeper alongside Pelé
- Santos era
- 1951–1969
Lore & Background
Gilmar was born in Santos, São Paulo, and started his career playing for hometown side Jabaquara. In 1951 he joined Corinthians, winning three Campeonato Paulista titles with the club in 1951, 1952 and 1954. In 1961, Gilmar signed for Santos, being a part of the team known as Os Santásticos. An immediate starter, he won five Campeonato Paulista, five Taça Brasil, two Copa Libertadores and two Intercontinental Cups. He played 94 times with the Brazil national team, was selected for three straight World Cups between 1958 and 1966, and was the starting goalkeeper in the 1958 and 1962 World Cup victories. He is the only goalkeeper to win two consecutive World Cups in the starting position. Gilmar died of a stroke on 25 August 2013, three days after his 83rd birthday.
Reader's Guide
Gilmar is regarded by some pundits as one of the greatest Brazilian goalkeepers of all time. In the opinion of Grahame L. Jones, Gilmar was an agile shot-stopper, who possessed excellent reflexes, and who was also known for his composure under pressure, as well as his ability to inspire a sense of calm and confidence in his defenders.
Did You Know?
- Gilmar is named after his parents, Gilberto and Maria, according to Alex Bellos.
- In 1998, he was awarded the FIFA Order of Merit.
- He was the starting goalkeeper for Pelé's Santos and Brazilian national teams of the 1960s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Gilmar?
Gilmar dos Santos Neves was a legendary Brazilian goalkeeper who joined Santos FC in 1956 and became a cornerstone of the club's golden era. He is celebrated for his technical brilliance and long-standing partnership with Pelé, helping transform Santos into a global powerhouse.
What role did Gilmar play at Santos?
As the primary goalkeeper from 1956 to 1970, Gilmar provided the defensive stability that allowed attacking stars like Pelé to dominate matches. His leadership and shot-stopping ability were essential in securing numerous domestic and international titles for the Peixe.
What are Gilmar's major achievements?
Gilmar won two FIFA World Cups with Brazil in 1958 and 1962, establishing himself as one of the greatest goalkeepers in history. Additionally, he received the Ballon d'Or twice, in 1962 and 1963, making him the first goalkeeper to ever win the prestigious award.
How does Gilmar's story conclude?
After a distinguished 14-year tenure at Santos, Gilmar left the club in 1970 having secured an enduring place in its Hall of Fame. His retirement marked the end of an era, but his contributions continue to be honored as vital to the identity of Santos FC.
More in Legendary Players & Icons
Elsewhere in Santos FC
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced