A right winger needs to create good attacking moves, deliver crosses and score goals. Cruzeiro Esporte Clube has had players who have excelled in this position. Take a look back at the best right-wingers in Cruzeiro’s history.
During Cruzeiro’s long journey, these players contributed significantly to the team’s success and became idols for their skill and speed, as well as their ability to decide important matches.
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What do right-sided players do?
Right-wingers in soccer play an essential role in a team’s offensive and defensive dynamics. In attack, they use their speed, dribbling and ball control to advance down the right side of the pitch, creating goal-scoring opportunities.
They often look for spaces to cross the ball into the opposing penalty area, aiming to find strikers or other teammates in a position to finish.
In addition, many right-wingers are adept at cutting inside towards the middle of the pitch, opening up space to shoot at goal with their left foot or to create more centralized play.
The best right-wingers in Cruzeiro’s history
Natal
Natal played for Cruzeiro from 1962 to 1972 and is considered one of the greatest right-wingers in the club’s history. Known for his speed and accurate crosses, Natal was instrumental in winning the 1966 Brazil Cup, where Cruzeiro beat Pelé’s Santos.
Palhinha
Palhinha played for Cruzeiro between 1968 and 1976. His ability to dribble and finish made him one of the greatest idols in the club’s history. Palhinha was one of the highlights of the 1976 Copa Libertadores. Certainly one of the best right-wingers in Cruzeiro’s history.
Maurinho
Maurinho had two spells with Cruzeiro Esporte Clube (1998-2001 and 2003-2005). His speed and dribbling ability on the right flank made him one of the team’s key players, contributing significantly to the club’s achievements, including the 2003 Copa do Brasil.
Edilson
Edilson “Capetinha” played for Cruzeiro in 2002. Although his spell was short, he left a significant mark with his skill and ability to decide matches. His talent and personality captivated the Celeste fans.
Rafinha
Rafinha played for Cruzeiro from 2011 to 2014 and again from 2018 to 2020. His speed, skill and precise crosses made him one of the team’s most important players, helping them win two consecutive Brazilian Championships (2013 and 2014).
Willian
Willian, known as “Bigode”, played for Cruzeiro between 2013 and 2016. As a right winger, he was known for his ability to dribble and finish, as well as being a very tactically committed player. He was crucial in winning the Brazilian Championship in 2013 and 2014.
Marquinhos
Marquinhos played for Cruzeiro between 2014 and 2015. His technical ability and vision of the game made him an important part of the team’s offensive scheme. He contributed to the two-time Brazilian championship in 2014.
Geovanni
Geovanni, who also played as a left winger, had an important spell at Cruzeiro between 2000 and 2003. Playing on the right flank, he was known for his dribbling skills and accurate long-range shots.
Wendel
Wendel played for Cruzeiro between 2006 and 2007. As a right winger, he was known for his speed and crossing ability, and was a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Robinho
Robinho played for Cruzeiro from 2016 to 2019. His technical skill and ability to create plays were fundamental to the team. He was one of the key players in winning the 2017 and 2018 Brazilian Cups.
Pedro Rocha
Pedro Rocha had a spell at Cruzeiro in 2019. Although brief, his speed and ability to dribble down the right flank left a good impression on the fans.
Roberto Gaúcho
Roberto Gaúcho played for Cruzeiro between 1992 and 1996. As a right winger, he was known for his ability to dribble and deliver precise crosses, contributing to several of the team’s victories, including the Copa do Brasil in 1993 and 1996.
Jadson
Jadson played for Cruzeiro between 2019 and 2020. His ability to carry the ball and make decisive passes made him an important player in the team’s tactical scheme. He is also one of the best right-wingers in Cruzeiro’s history.
David
David played for Cruzeiro between 2018 and 2019. His ability to dribble and finish made him one of the team’s highlights during his time there.
Élber
Élber had two spells with Cruzeiro (2011-2013 and 2016-2017). As a right winger, he was known for his speed and ability to create attacking moves, being an important cog in the team’s attack. He certainly deserves a place on the list of the best right-wingers in Cruzeiro’s history.
List: best right-wingers in Cruzeiro’s history
- Natal
- Straw
- Maurinho
- Edilson
- Rafinha
- Willian
- Marquinhos
- Geovanni
- Wendel
- Robinho
- Pedro Rocha
- Roberto Gaúcho
- Jadson
- David
- Élber
The history of Cruzeiro Esporte Clube is rich and full of achievements, much due to the talent and dedication of those players who played as right backs. They left a legacy of skill, passion and victories that continue to inspire new generations of fans and players.
Did you enjoy reminiscing with us about the best right-backs in Cruzeiro’s history? Then keep following our articles to learn more about the history and idols of Brazilian soccer.
- Meet the 15 best left-backs in Cruzeiro’s history
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