Hélio Miguel

Hélio Miguel (18 December 1947 – 25 January 2015), better known by the nickname Neneca, was a Brazilian professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper.

Career

Neneca is remembered for being Guarani FC's starter in the 1978 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. He stood out for his excellent ability with the ball at his feet, something rare for goalkeepers at that time, having made the long pass that ended in an iconic goal by Careca. He also won a state title with Náutico, where in 1974, he became known nationally for completing 1,636 minutes, more than 18 matches, without conceding a goal, where he later worked as a coach. He inspired the nickname "Neneca" in several other goalkeepers, especially black ones, such as Anderson Soares da Silva and Hugo Souza.

Personal life

His son, Hélio Miguel Júnior, who also uses the nickname "Neneca", is a goalkeeper in the youth categories of Londrina EC and currently plays for FC Cascavel.

Honours

Náutico Campeonato Pernambucano: 1974

Guarani Campeonato Brasileiro: 1978

Londrina Campeonato Paranaense: 1981

Death

Neneca died in Londrina, 25 January 2015, aged 67, due to advancing bone cancer.