The prestigious Under-18 youth tournament, known simply as the Copa São Paulo, or the Copinha, will start tomorrow and amongst those participating will be the sons of two famous fathers.
For Flamengo, 17-year-old Matheus will appear once more, having also played a part in the victorious campaign of 2011. The son of Bebeto, Matheus is a highly talented attacking midfielder who is already being tipped to make a significant impact in his career to come.
It was of course the birth of Matheus that prompted the symbollic cradle-swinging celebration of Bebeto and his colleagues at the 1994 World Cup.
Romário’s son Romarinho has also hit the headlines in Brazil, for his exploits with the fairer sex off-the-pitch and was forced this week to emphasise his focus on training and his footballing career.
Also a talented playmaker, Romarinho will participate for Vasco da Gama and hope to prove wrong those doubters who believe he is only at the club due to his father.
Interestingly, the son of Corinthians idol Marcelinho Carioca will also participate in the Copinha. Lucas Marcelinho, 18, will line-up in attacking-midfield for Red Bull Brasil and hope to use his performances to catch the attention of one of Brazil’s top clubs.
One trait he does share with his father is they both possess remarkably small feet, although Lucas’ feet are slightly bigger at size 41, than those of his esteemed father (36).
