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Cafu

Cafu is the nickname of Marcos Evangelista de Morais, a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a right-back.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Cafu is the nickname of Marcos Evangelista de Morais, a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a right-back. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest full-backs in football history and is Brazil’s most-capped men’s player, with 142 appearances. He won the FIFA World Cup with Brazil in 1994 and 2002, captaining the team in 2002.

Early life and name

Marcos Evangelista de Morais was born on 7 June 1970 in Itaquaquecetuba, São Paulo, Brazil. He is known worldwide by the nickname Cafu.

Club career

Cafu began his professional career at São Paulo and later played for clubs including Zaragoza, Juventude, Palmeiras, Roma, and AC Milan. His time in Europe brought him major domestic and international honours.

International career

Cafu earned a record 142 caps for Brazil, making him the most-capped men's player in the country's history. He participated in four FIFA World Cups and played in three finals, winning the tournament in 1994 and 2002. He captained Brazil to victory in the 2002 World Cup.

Style and legacy

Cafu was known for his pace, stamina, and attacking runs down the right flank. His consistency and honours have made him a reference point for the modern attacking full-back, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest full-backs in football history.

Key facts

  • Cafu is a former Brazilian footballer best known for playing as a right-back.
  • He is Brazil’s record holder for men’s international appearances with 142 caps.
  • He played in three World Cup finals and won the tournament in 1994 and 2002.
  • His club career included major spells at São Paulo, Roma, and AC Milan.
  • He is widely regarded as one of the greatest full-backs of all time.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Cafu?
Cafu is the nickname of Marcos Evangelista de Morais, a retired Brazilian footballer who played as a right-back.
What is Cafu known for?
He is known for his pace, attacking style from right-back, and his record 142 appearances for Brazil.
How many World Cups did Cafu win?
He won two FIFA World Cups with Brazil, in 1994 and 2002.
Did Cafu captain Brazil?
Yes. He captained Brazil to victory at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Which clubs is Cafu most associated with?
He is especially associated with São Paulo, Roma, and AC Milan.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cafu
    Supports: Full name, nickname, birth date, position, Brazil caps, clubs, and World Cup record.
  2. Laureushttps://www.laureus.com/world-sports-academy/members/cafu
    Supports: Brazil appearance record, World Cup wins, and recognition for his career.
  3. Wikipediahttps://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cafu
    Supports: Position, record for Brazil appearances, and general biographical details.