OBDULIO VARELA

Obdulio Jacinto Muiños Varela (Spanish pronunciation: [oβˈðuljo βaˈɾela]; September 20, 1917 — August 2, 1996) was a Uruguayan football player. He was nicknamed "El Negro Jefe" (The Black Chief) because of his dark skin and the influence he had on the pitch, especially during the unlikely victory over Brazil. He was of African, Spanish and Greek ancestry. Commonly regarded as one of the greatest classic holding midfielders, Varela was adept in defence and was renowned for his tenacity and leadership. He is regarded as one of the greatest captains in football history.

Varela, born in Montevideo, emerged as a centre half and senior player at Deportivo Juventud, club which he joined in 1936. He debuted in first division with Montevideo Wanderers in 1938. In 1943, he joined C.A. Peñarol, club for which he would play until his professional retirement in 1955. He won the Uruguayan first division 6 times, Torneo de Honor 8 times and Competencia tourney 6 times.

Varela's international debut came in a 3–2 win against Chile in the 1939 Copa America in Lima, Peru. Varela entered the match as a substitute. He played 45 international matches for Uruguay from 1939 to 1954, in which he scored nine goals. He's most remembered as the captain of the Uruguay team that won 1950 FIFA World Cup, in which he played a vital role. The decisive match was against the hosts Brazil. Uruguay needed to win, but Brazil could win the Cup with a draw. Uruguay scored through Schiaffino and then, 9 minutes before the finish, with a very nervous Brazil team, Alcides Ghiggia scored the 2–1 for Uruguay, winning the World Cup. He also played on the 1954 FIFA World Cup with Uruguay defending his 1950 title, but this time, Varela got injured before the semifinals against Hungary, Uruguay lost 4–2 after extra time. Uruguay had never lost a World Cup match when Varela was present.