Bebeto (José Roberto Gama de Oliveira, born 16 February 1964) is a retired Brazilian footballer who gained international recognition as a forward. Renowned for his finishing, intelligent movement and composure in the penalty area, he became one of Brazil's most familiar attacking players during the late 1980s and 1990s. For a concise player profile see profile.
Club career
Bebeto spent his professional years with a number of teams in Brazil and Europe. He is especially remembered for his productive spell at Deportivo La Coruña in Spain, where his goals helped raise the club's profile in the 1990s. He also enjoyed successful periods with leading Brazilian clubs and remained a sought-after striker for his ability to convert chances under pressure. For club statistics and seasons, consult club record.
International career
At international level Bebeto was a regular member of the Brazil national team during a highly competitive era. He was part of Brazil's squad that won the 1994 FIFA World Cup, contributing important goals and combining effectively with team-mates up front. His presence helped Brazil maintain its attacking identity through tournaments and qualifiers. More on his national appearances can be found at national team details.
Style, famous celebration and legacy
Bebeto was noted for timing his runs, quick reactions in the box and clinical finishing rather than flamboyant dribbling. He is widely remembered for the baby‑rocking goal celebration during the 1994 World Cup, a simple gesture that resonated internationally and became part of football folklore. That moment remains a frequent reference when discussing World Cup memories.
After playing
Following retirement Bebeto maintained ties to the sport through coaching, mentoring and administrative roles, and has appeared in interviews and public events reflecting on his career and on Brazilian football’s development. Selected interviews and retrospectives are available at interviews and retrospectives.
Viewed as a prototypical goalscorer of his generation, Bebeto's combination of professionalism, consistency and memorable international moments secures his place in Brazil's rich football history.