When Denilson first appeared for the Brazilian national team as a 19-year-old in a match against Cameroon during November 1996, the excitement surrounding the winger, who hailed from Diadema, was extremely high.
Known for his imaginative and skillful plays, Denilson’s initial performances for the Selecao played a role in his team’s victories at the 1997 Copa America and Confederations Cup. He also participated in every match during the team’s journey to the 1998 World Cup final in France.
Following that summer, he was transferred from Sao Paulo to Real Betis for a then-record fee of £21.5 million. Despite a challenging start in La Liga, he eventually made his way back into the international scene by 2001.
Denilson Discusses Brazil’s Triumph in the 2002 World Cup
“During that summer, I returned home anticipating a relaxing vacation; however, unexpectedly, I received a call-up to the Brazil team again after more than a year,” Denilson shared with FourFourTwo. “I found it hard to believe. Playing in the second division, the last thing I expected was to be called up for the Selecao.
“But Luiz Felipe Scolari had taken charge. He contacted me, mentioned that he had been observing me, and selected me for the 2001 Copa America. It was at that point that the joyful and playful Denilson made a comeback.”
Energized once more, Denilson managed to retain his position in the national team’s roster for the subsequent World Cup that summer.
“The pinnacle was reached in 2002 – at the World Cup held in Japan and South Korea,” he recalls. “Four years prior, I was anxious about whether I would be included in the final team. However, in 2002, I felt confident. I was older, more experienced, and more respected. If I was still considered the youngster in 1998, by 2002 that role had been passed on to Kaka.”
Reigning champions France, along with Argentina, who had put together an impressive qualifying performance under Marcelo Bielsa, went to Asia as the favorites to win the competition. However, Brazil started strongly, winning all three of their group matches and defeating Belgium, England, and Turkey in the knockout rounds to secure a spot in the final against Germany.
“The memory that remains with me is the sound of the final whistle against Germany, as we secured victory in the final held in Yokohama,” Denilson continued. “I was running around, wrapped in the Brazilian flag, and gazing up at the sky, offering thanks to God.
“After enduring numerous challenging periods, being there as a World Cup champion was incredibly moving.”
For Denilson, becoming a world champion is an achievement that will remain with him eternally.
“Winning that trophy creates a lasting impact,” he adds. “Even long after my time, people will be aware of what I accomplished. Football introduced me to the world, allowing me to enter homes across the globe with the ball at my feet.
“Passing on the title of world champion to my family is the greatest honor I could receive.”
