Brazilian goalkeeper Julio Cesar is a World Cup veteran as he represents Brazil in his third World Cup in a row. Cesar began his international career as a sub and has transformed into a hero after making brilliant saves in penalty shootouts. Watch the video above to see his emotional interview after his best game in the World Cup.
Here’s what you need to know about him:
1. This Is His Third World Cup
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Júlio César’s international career began in 2003, when he was used as a backup to Dida.
In 2006, Cesar was third-string goalkeeper after Dida and Rogério Ceni.
César was included in coach Dunga’s squad once again for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. He was heavily criticized after a mishap in the quarterfinals where he let in an easy goal that won the match for the Netherlands and was part of the demise of Brazil in the tournament.
In this World Cup, César stopped penalty goals from Mauricio Pinilla and Alexis Sánchez of Chile to get Brazil past the Round of 16 and into the quarterfinals vs. Colombia.
2. He Plays for the Queens Park Rangers
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César signed a 4-year contract with the Premier League’s Queens Park Ranger in 2012.He establlished himself as the first-string goalkeeper right away with exceptional performances from the start.
The Rangers were later relegated from the Premier League due to monetary issues, hurting the Old Firm rivalry and freezing Cesar out of the team.
He was then put on loan to the MLS’s Toronto FC.
3. He Was On Loan to FC Toronto
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In February 2014, César signed contract that put him on loan to Toronto FC to get him some playing time after the Rangers’ relegation.
4. Fans Questioned His Abilities
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Brazil fans have put a lot of pressure on their first string goalie. Since being loaned to Toronto FC, fans have questioned his ability because the MLS is less competitive than the UEFA or Premier Leagues.
Cesar told media that “he is a firm believer in his own abilities” while pointing out game saving shot-stoppers he had against Mexico.
5. His Wife Was a Model
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Julio Cesar is married to former model and actress, Susana Werner. Werner grew up in Rio de Janeiro where she has lived her whole life.
The couple have two children, Cauet (12-years-old) and Giulia (9-years-old).
