Fernandão (footballer, born 1978)

Fernandão (born Fernando Lúcio da Costa on March 18, 1978, in Goiás, Brazil, died June 7, 2014) was a Brazilian professional footballer who played as a forward. He was a prominent figure in Brazilian football, particularly known for his time captaining and playing for Internacional.

Fernandão began his career in Goiás Esporte Clube before moving to Europe. He played for Olympique de Marseille in France, and Toulouse, also in France, before returning to Brazil.

His most significant period was with Internacional, where he became a club legend. He captained the team to numerous titles, including the Copa Libertadores in 2006 and the FIFA Club World Cup in the same year. He was known for his leadership qualities, dedication, and crucial goals. He also played a role in Internacional's Recopa Sudamericana victory in 2007.

After leaving Internacional, Fernandão played for Al-Gharafa in Qatar, and Goiás once again before retiring from professional football. Following his retirement, he briefly worked as a manager, including a short stint with Internacional in 2012.

Fernandão tragically died in a helicopter crash in 2014, at the age of 36. He is remembered as one of Internacional's greatest players and a respected figure in Brazilian football. His legacy at Internacional is enduring, and he is often cited as a symbol of the club's successful era in the mid-2000s.