Romário’s path towards his fourth world championship in 1994 could have been very different. Before becoming the great hero of the Brazilian team in the United States, the striker experienced one of the most difficult moments of his life: the kidnapping of his father, Edevair de Souza Faria.
The case happened in May 1994, a few weeks before the start of the World Cup. While Brazil was preparing for the competition, Romário’s family faced a true nightmare. Edevair disappeared and, shortly afterwards, the kidnappers got in touch demanding a large sum for his release.
The drama shook the player deeply. Considered the main star of the Seleção at that time, Romário even stated that he would not compete in the World Cup if his father was not found. The statement generated enormous repercussion and increased the concern of fans, managers and the technical committee led by Carlos Alberto Parreira.
Decades later, the former player recalled this period in the documentary “Romário – O Cara”, which is on Prime Video, where he openly talks about the fear, anguish and feeling of helplessness he experienced during those days. According to him, the search for information mobilized family, friends and people from different circles of influence in an attempt to locate his father as quickly as possible.
Fortunately, after almost a week of tension, Edevair was rescued alive. The outcome brought relief to the family and allowed Romário to finally turn his focus to the mission ahead: leading the Brazilian team in the World Cup.
The rest of the story became legend. With decisive performances, important goals and an unforgettable partnership with Bebeto, Romário was a fundamental player in winning the fourth championship, ending a 24-year drought without world titles for Brazil.
When revisiting this episode in the documentary, it becomes clear that behind the irreverent star there was a son desperate to find his father again. It’s a story that many fans are unaware of, but which shows how one of the greatest moments in Brazilian football was just a thread away from happening.
If the outcome had been different, perhaps the story of the 1994 World Cup would have been different. Fortunately for Romário, his family and Brazil, that nightmare ended before the ball started rolling.
