Born: 1967 (Esplanada, Brazil)
Biography:
Sisleide do Amor Lima, better known as Sissi, is a Brazilian footballer and coach who made her mark as an attacking midfielder. She was born on June 2, 1967, in Esplanada, Brazil. From a young age, Sissi developed a passion for football and began playing alongside her older brother and father at the age of six. Her talent and love for the sport quickly became evident, setting her on a path to greatness.
At just 14 years old, Sissi left her hometown of Esplanada to pursue a professional football career in Salvador, Brazil. It was during this time that her skills caught the attention of national team selectors, and at the tender age of 16, she earned her first call-up to the Brazilian national team. This marked the beginning of a successful international career that would see her become one of Brazil’s most celebrated female footballers.
In 1999, Sissi made a significant move from São Paulo FC to Palmeiras, where she showcased her immense talent and contributed to the team’s success. Her skills on the pitch attracted attention from the United States, and in 2001, she joined the San Jose CyberRays in the Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA), the first professional women’s soccer league in the country. Sissi’s three-year stint with the team culminated in the CyberRays winning the Founders Cup Championship in their inaugural season.
After the WUSA ceased operations, Sissi continued her playing career with the California Storm in the Women’s Premier Soccer League. Joining forces with fellow Women’s World Cup stars Brandi Chastain and Keri Sanchez, Sissi solidified her position as one of the greatest female players of her time. Her contribution to the sport extended beyond her performances on the field. Sissi’s dedication and talent inspired a new generation of female footballers, empowering them to pursue their dreams and challenge societal norms.
In 2005, Sissi briefly returned to Brazil to play for Saad Esporte Clube, one of her former clubs. Her impact on the international stage was particularly notable during the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she represented Brazil. Sissi’s impressive performance earned her the prestigious golden boot award, recognizing her as the top scorer of the tournament with a remarkable seven goals.
Despite her outstanding achievements, Sissi faced challenges along the way. In the 2003 FIFA Women’s World Cup, a 36-year-old Sissi was controversially left out of the Brazil squad due to perceived disciplinary issues and her relatively advanced age. Regardless, Sissi’s legacy as a gifted and influential player remains imprinted in the history of women’s football.
Sissi’s unwavering passion for the game led her to new heights even after retiring as a player. In 2009, she became an assistant coach for FC Gold Pride, a team that competed in the inaugural season of Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS). At the age of 42, Sissi also made three appearances as a player for the team, further extending her remarkable career and leaving a lasting impact on the sport she loved.
Awards:
– 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Boot Award