Toronto FC goalkeeper Júlio César was named to Brazilian Head Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari’s 23-man roster for the 2014 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday.
“We are very excited with the news that Júlio César has been called into the Brazilian squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in his native Brazil,” said Toronto FC General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “Anytime a player is called to represent his country it is an honor and a privilege. While this was not unexpected given his experience, world class caliber and recent form with TFC, everyone at the Club is proud of this significant milestone for Júlio César, especially because it is in Brazil. He has a unique opportunity to play in front of his home fans at a World Cup and we wish him all the best.”
Júlio César, 34, has appeared and started in all seven matches, logging 630 minutes, with a record of 3-4-0 while registering two clean sheets for Toronto FC this season.
Júlio César has earned 78 caps to date for his native Brazil. His most recent cap came on March 5th, 2014 in a friendly match against South Africa where he started the match, registered a clean sheet and played the full 90 minutes in a 5-0 victory. Júlio César has represented Brazil at two previous FIFA World Cups’, Germany (2006), and South Africa (2010). He has won three international trophies with Brazil. The first came at the 2004 Copa América tournament, where he helped lead Brazil to the title over Argentina in a penalty shootout. Júlio César also was part of Brazil’s FIFA Confederations Cup title winning squads in both 2009 and 2013.