FORMER Brazil international Geovani Silva has died aged 62 after reportedly suddenly falling ill.
The ex-midfielder, affectionately nicknamed “Little Prince” during his legendary spell with Vasco da Gama, was rushed to hospital in Vila Velha, Espirito Santo, in the early hours of Monday morning.
But despite desperate attempts by medics to revive him, Geovani tragically did not survive.
His devastated family confirmed the news in a statement shared on the former footballer’s social media accounts.
The statement read: “It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of our warrior Geovani Silva.
“In the early hours of this morning, he suddenly fell ill and was immediately taken to the nearest hospital.
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“Despite all the efforts of the medical team and attempts at resuscitation, unfortunately he did not survive.
“We are all very shaken and saddened by this unexpected loss.”
Geovani leaves behind three children.
A funeral service and burial are set to take place on Tuesday in Vila Velha.
The former star had battled several serious health problems in recent years.
At the end of 2025, he spent 40 days in hospital after reportedly suffering two cardiac arrests in Vitoria.
He had also previously been hospitalised with heart complications in 2022 and earlier fought spinal cancer and polyneuropathy in 2006.
Despite ongoing mobility issues, Geovani continued making public appearances at football tributes and club events.
In February, Vasco honoured the club legend before a Campeonato Carioca clash against Volta Redonda.
Speaking during the emotional tribute, Geovani said: “When you’re honoured while alive, it’s much better.
“I had health problems, I thought I wouldn’t make it through the year, but I did, and if I’m alive, it’s something to celebrate.”
Widely regarded as one of the most gifted midfielders of his generation, Geovani became famous for his silky dribbling, vision and elegant style of play.
He began his career with Desportiva Ferroviaria before joining Vasco in 1982, where he would become a club icon.
During three spells with the Rio giants, he played 408 games and scored 49 goals while helping the club win multiple state titles.
He also starred alongside Brazilian legends including Romario and Roberto Dinamite.
On the international stage, Geovani enjoyed huge success with Brazil’s youth sides.
He won the 1983 Under-20 World Cup, finishing as top scorer with six goals and netting the winner against Argentina in the final.
The midfielder later claimed Olympic silver at the 1988 Seoul Games and was part of Brazil’s victorious 1989 Copa América squad.
Geovani also had spells abroad in Mexico, Germany and Italy, including a popular stint with Bologna.
Following retirement, he entered politics and served as a state representative in Espirito Santo before returning to work on local sports projects.
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