The position of defender is fundamental in soccer, being responsible for protecting the defense and guaranteeing the team’s solidity against opposing attacks. Cruzeiro Esporte Clube has always had exceptional defenders who have made their mark and helped consolidate the team’s success. Meet the best defenders in Cruzeiro’s history.
Best defenders in Cruzeiro’s history
1 – Procópio Cardoso
Info on Procópio Cardoso
Procópio Cardoso played for Cruzeiro from 1966 to 1973. Recognized for his leadership on the pitch and defensive ability, he was one of the pillars of the team that won the 1966 Brazil Cup, beating Pelé’s Santos in the final.
Titles
- Brazil Cup: 1966
Curiosities
- After his playing career, Procópio had a successful coaching career, including spells at Cruzeiro itself.
2 – Piazza
About Piazza
Wilson Piazza, one of Cruzeiro’s greatest idols, played from 1964 to 1979. Initially a midfielder, he established himself as a defender due to his ability to mark and read the game, contributing significantly to several of the club’s achievements. One of the best defenders in Cruzeiro’s history.
Titles
- Brazil Cup: 1966
- Copa Libertadores: 1976
Curiosities
- Piazza was a starter in the 1970 World Cup, when Brazil won the title three times.
3 – Luisão
Info on Luisão
Luisão, known for his imposing physique and aerial ability, played for Cruzeiro from 2000 to 2003. He was crucial in the defense of the team that won the Triple Crown in 2003.
Titles
- Brazilian Cup: 2000, 2003
- Brazilian Championship: 2003
Curiosities
- After leaving Cruzeiro, Luisão had a long and successful career at Benfica in Portugal.
4 – Cris
Info on Cris
Cris, one of the most talented defenders to wear the Cruzeiro shirt, played for the club between 1999 and 2004. His technique and aggressive marking stood out.
Titles
- Brazilian Cup: 2000, 2003
- Brazilian Championship: 2003
Curiosities
- Cris also made a name for himself in European soccer, especially at Lyon in France.
5 – Paulão
Information
Paulo César, better known as Paulão, played for Cruzeiro in the 1990s. He was a solid and reliable defender, known for his physical strength and ability in the air. He is also considered one of the best defenders in Cruzeiro’s history.
Titles
- Brazilian Cup: 1996
- Copa Libertadores: 1997
Curiosities
- Paulão had a successful career both in Brazil and abroad, including spells in Japan.
6 – Cléber
Cléber
Cléber played for Cruzeiro from 1995 to 1997 and then returned in 2002. He was known for his strong defensive presence and leadership on the pitch.
Titles
- Brazilian Cup: 1996
- Copa Libertadores: 1997
Curiosities
- Cléber has also played for other major Brazilian clubs, such as Palmeiras.
7 – Fábio Luciano
Information
Fábio Luciano had a brief but significant spell at Cruzeiro in 2003. His assured performances and good positioning contributed to the Triple Crown.
Titles
- Brazilian Championship: 2003
- Brazilian Cup: 2003
Curiosities
- Fábio Luciano had a distinguished career with Corinthians and Flamengo, as well as playing in Turkey.
8 – Geraldão
Info on Geraldão
Geraldão, a defender with great technique and scoring power, played for Cruzeiro between 1981 and 1987. His consistent performances made him a fan favorite. He can’t be left out of the list of the best defenders in Cruzeiro’s history.
Titles
- Mineiro Championship: 1984, 1987
Curiosities
- Geraldão was also successful in Portuguese soccer, playing for Porto.
9 – Sorín
Information
Juan Pablo Sorín, although best remembered as a left-back, also played as a defender for Cruzeiro, especially in specific tactical situations. He played for the club in two spells: 2000-2002 and 2004-2008.
Titles
- Brazilian Cup: 2000
- Brazilian Championship: 2003
Curiosities
- Sorín is one of the few foreign players to achieve idol status at Cruzeiro.
10 – Adílson Batista
Information
Adílson Batista, who played as a defender for Cruzeiro from 1989 to 1993, was known for his tactical intelligence and leadership on the pitch.
Titles
- Libertadores Super Cup: 1991, 1992
Curiosities
- Adílson Batista has had a successful career as a coach, including spells at Cruzeiro itself.
11 – Moacir
11 – Moacir
Information
Moacir played for Cruzeiro from 1965 to 1974. He was a solid and disciplined defender, a key part of the defense that won the Taça Brasil in 1966.
Titles
- Taça Brasil: 1966
Curiosities
- Moacir was called up to the Brazilian National Team on several occasions during his career.
12 – Luciano
Information
Luciano played for Cruzeiro from 1989 to 1996. His physical strength and marking ability made him a reliable and important defender for the team.
Titles
- Supercopa Libertadores: 1991, 1992
Curiosities
- Luciano was part of the defense that helped establish Cruzeiro as a force in South American football in the 1990s.
13 – Zezé
Information
Zezé, a versatile and technical defender, played for Cruzeiro from 1948 to 1958. He was known for his game-reading ability and leadership.
Titles
- Campeonato Mineiro: 1956
Curiosities
- Zezé was one of the first great defenders in Cruzeiro’s history, helping to establish the club as a regional powerhouse.
14 – Léo
Information
Léo, with a long career at Cruzeiro from 2010 to 2021, is known for his consistency and dedication to the club. He is one of the players with the most appearances for Cruzeiro.
Titles
- Campeonato Brasileiro: 2013, 2014
- Copa do Brasil: 2017, 2018
Curiosities
- Léo has always been a leader on and off the field, serving as captain on several occasions.
15 – Bruno Rodrigo
Information
Bruno Rodrigo played for Cruzeiro from 2013 to 2016. Known for his defensive security and aerial ability, he was crucial in the club’s recent successes.
Titles
- Campeonato Brasileiro: 2013, 2014
- Copa do Brasil: 2017
Curiosities
- Bruno Rodrigo stood out for his consistency and the number of goals scored as a defender.
List: Best Center Backs in Cruzeiro’s History
- Procópio Cardoso
- Piazza
- Luisão
- Cris
- Paulão
- Cléber
- Fábio Luciano
- Geraldão
- Sorín
- Adílson Batista
- Moacir
- Luciano
- Zezé
- Léo
- Bruno Rodrigo
Now that you know about the best defenders in Cruzeiro’s history, visit our website for more stories and information about football and other sports:
- The 15 best left-backs in Cruzeiro’s history
- The 15 best right-backs in Cruzeiro’s history
- 15 best goalkeepers in Corinthians’ history
