South American Player Of The Year

South American Player Of The Year. The flamboyant goalkeeper of Atletico Nacional (Medellin) and Colombia Rene Huguita was voted 3rd with 34 points. Vasco da Gama midfielder Mazinho was 2nd with 42 points. And his teammate Bebeto was voted best South American player in 1989. He got 74 points.
Already 25 years old, the striker was well known name, but somewhat in danger of becoming one more unfulfilled hopeful.
He just moved from Flamengo to Vasco da Gama and looked like the change of jersey was just right and he played excellent first season with black and white. He also became key regular of the Brazilian national team, paired with Romario, who he replaced in Vasco da Gama. No doubt, winning Copa America with Brazil was the major factor for his recognition, but he deserved. Of course, one has to keep in mind that European-based South Americans did not get votes, so many stars, including Maradona and Romario were out of the race. But at last Bebeto was truly recognized as major international star.