João Batista da Silva

João Batista da Silva (born 8 March 1955), known as Batista, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a defensive midfielder.

He competed in the men's tournament at the 1976 Summer Olympics and won a gold medal in football at the 1975 Pan American Games.

Club career Throughout his club career, Batista played for several clubs, mainly[ in Brazil, but also in Italy and Portugal, namely: Internacional (1973–1981), Grêmio (1982), Palmeiras (1983), Lazio (1983–1985), Avellino (1985), Belenenses (1985–1987), and Avaí (1988–1989). During his time with Internacional, he won three Campeonato Brasileiro Série A titles, in 1975, 1976, and 1979.

International career Batista competed in the men's tournament at the 1976 Summer Olympics, where Brazil finished in fourth place, and he also won a gold medal in football at the 1975 Pan American Games. In the 1978 tournament, Batista played throughout all seven of Brazil's matches, with the team not losing a single match, and only conceding three goals. Brazil failed to qualify for the final on goal difference, eventually finishing the tournament in third place.

He was also a member of the Brazil team that finished in third place at the 1979 Copa América.

Style of play Batista usually played as a defensive midfielder, where he was known for his ability to aid his team defensively, but also had the capacity to help build attacking plays after winning back possession. However, he was also known for his lack of pace.

Honours Internacional Campeonato Gaúcho: 1975, 1976, 1978, 1981 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A: 1975, 1976, 1979

Avaí Campeonato Catarinense: 1988

Individual Bola de Prata: 1980, 1982