Soccer Giants of Brazil: One American’s Take on Samba Soccer Culture

How has Brazil managed to produce the sheer number of dazzling soccer players and great champions it has? After living in Brazil for almost two decades and attending ten consecutive World Cups in person, American writer Will Beebe gives his inside take on the secrets of samba soccer culture.Writing for a global audience of soccer fans, aspiring players, their parents and coaches, Beebe reveals the unique mindset, techniques, and training that led Brazil and its myriad outstanding players to the top of the soccer world. This book includes dozens of full-color photos showing Brazil’s star players in action, plus highlights of Will’s global travels to watch high-profile soccer matches on six continents.From the first time he saw Pelé live, strutting his stuff with the NY Cosmos, to his adventures as an English teacher in Japan alongside soccer giants Raí, Ruy Ramos, and Zico, Beebe dives into the profiles and memorable moments of 58 of Brazil's best stars, including The Top 10 To Watch. On a lighter note, he describes what it's like to live and play soccer in Brazil, and his own miscues and revelations on the culture, food, and language. Read more