Rubens (footballer, born 1928)

Rubens Josué da Costa (24 November 1928 – 31 May 1987) is a former Brazilian football player. He has played for the Brazilian national team. He played as an attacking or attacking midfielder. On the pitch, he was noted for his technique and skill in dribbling, fast and effective, often carried out in a confined space of the pitch. He earned the nickname Doutor Rúbis due to his skill in controlling the ball. Widely considered as one of the best ever strikers.

Club career
He made his football debut in 1943 with Ipiranga (São Paulo), where he spent five seasons. From 1949 to 1950 he defended the colors of the Portuguesa Desportos. With his game for the last team he attracted the attention of the coaching staff of the club "Flamengo", which he joined in 1951. He played for the team from Rio de Janeiro for the next five seasons of his playing career. Most of his time with Flamengo was a key player for the team. As part of Flamengo, he was one of the team's top scorers, averaging 0.49 goals per game. He later played for Vasco da Gama, Prudentina and Ourinhos from 1957 to 1964. He ended his playing career with Bragantino, which he played for from 1964 to 1965.

International career
In 1952 he made his debut in official matches as part of the Brazilian national team. During his career in the national team he played 5 matches in its form. He was present in the application of the national team at the 1954 FIFA World Cup in Switzerland, but did not go on the field.

Death
He died on May 31, 1987 at the age of 59 in Rio de Janeiro.

Honours
Club
 Rio de Janeiro State: 1953, 1954, 1955, 1958
 Rio São Paulo Tournament: 1958

International
 Panamerican Championship: 1952

Category:1928 births
Category:1987 deaths
Category:Footballers from São Paulo