Alexander Bah, born in 1958, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a defender for several clubs in Europe and the United States. He was known for his technical skills, ball-winning ability, and his versatility as a defensive midfielder.
Bah began his career with Santos, where he made his debut in the 1977-78 season. After that, he moved to Real Madrid, where he spent five years, making over 200 appearances across all competitions. During this time, he won three La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions League titles.
In 1996, Bah joined Benfica, where he has been a key player ever since. He started off well at Benfica, but struggled at times due to injuries. However, he quickly became one of the team's most consistent defenders, playing alongside players like Thiago Almeida, João Hueso, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Bah's impact on Benfica's attack was significant. He helped develop young talent such as Fernandinho, who went on to become one of Portugal's most famous players. Bah also played a crucial role in securing Benfica's European honours, winning the UEFA Champions League in 1999 and the Copa do Reino in 2000.
However, Bah's playing days were not without controversy. He faced criticism for his aggressive style of play, which often led to him being booked frequently. Despite these issues, Bah remains an important figure in Portuguese football and continues to be respected by fans and teammates alike.