Henrique, former Vasco da Gama defender, dies at 49

Leonardo Henrique Peixoto dos Santos, known as Henrique, a former defender for Vasco da Gama, has passed away at the age of 49. The cause of death has not been disclosed by his family or the club.

Henrique was a prominent figure during one of the most successful eras in Vasco da Gama's history. Having joined the club's youth academy in 1996, he played for the professional team during two stints: 1998–2001 and 2003–2004. During his career, he won several major titles, including the 1998 Copa Libertadores, the 2000 Copa Mercosul, and the 2000 Brazilian Championship.

He is particularly remembered by fans for a decisive goal scored in 2004 against Athletico Paranaense. That header secured a 1–0 victory that effectively saved Vasco da Gama from relegation to the second division and simultaneously prevented Athletico Paranaense from clinching the league title. At the time of his passing, Henrique was serving as an assistant coach for Duque de Caxias.