Renê, former Vasco and Botafogo defender, dies at 77

Renê Carlos da Silva, a prominent defender who played for Vasco da Gama and Botafogo, has died at the age of 77. The cause of death was not disclosed.

Renê began his professional career with Bonsucesso in 1967 before joining Vasco da Gama in 1969. During his tenure there until 1976, he won the Campeonato Carioca in 1970 and the Campeonato Brasileiro in 1974. He later played for Botafogo until 1980, followed by stints at Bangu and Atlético Paranaense, where he retired in 1984. He was notably present during Pelé’s historic 1,000th goal match at the Maracanã in 1969.