Édson played at right-back in Brazil’s opening two games in the 1986 World Cup in México, when first choice Leandro did not make the trip. He was injured early in the second game, against Algeria in Guadalajara, and was replaced by the veteran midfielder Falcão. However, Édson’s injury ultimately led to the début of Josimar, at right-back, for the next game against Northern Ireland. Édson, as luck would have it, never played for Brazil again. Since 1998, he is a coach.