Romario sobbed openly at the news conference; coach Mario Zagallo’s refusal to risk him had caught him by surprise, too. By 2002, Romario was 36, still scoring goals.

Romario played for Brazil at the 1990 and 1994 World Cups, scoring five goals to help Brazil win the latter tournament. He made 73 appearances for his country between 1987 and 2005, scoring 56 goals.

Romario is very sorry, though he cannot remember what for. It was a desperate last attempt. Whenever Brazil have played at home this year the cry for Romario has gone up from the terraces. For the ...

Brazil's Romario, left, says he's close to scoring his 1,000th career goal, and Brazilians are preparing the celebrations, although the claim is being met with some skepticism.ERALDO PERES ...

Romario scored his penalty in the shootout in the 1994 World Cup final against Italy Former Brazil striker Romario has come out of retirement aged 58 and registered to play for America Football ...