**Hulk (Givanildo Vieira de Souza): The Powerhouse of Football - Career, Team, and Top 5 Legendary Moments**
**Let's Begin**
Givanildo Vieira de Souza, widely known as **Hulk**, is one of the most physically intimidating and technically skilled footballers of his time. Known for his explosive power, thundering left-footed strikes, and tremendous speed, Hulk has made an indelible impression on teams across Brazil, Europe, and Asia.
This blog article digs deep into Hulk’s career, his current team (Atlético Mineiro), squad size, and his **five most famous moments** that solidified his status as a footballing juggernaut.
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## **Who Is Hulk? – Career Overview** Born on **July 25, 1986**, in Campina Grande, Brazil, Hulk began his career with **Vilanovense** before creating a name for himself in Japan with **Kawasaki Frontale** and **Tokyo Verdy**. His breakthrough came with **FC Porto (2008-2012)**, when he became a celebrity, winning many trophies.
After a successful time at **Zenit Saint Petersburg (2012-2016)** and a brief period in China with **Shanghai SIPG (2016-2020)**, Hulk returned to Brazil with **Atlético Mineiro** in **2021**, where he continues to dominate.
### **Current side: Atlético Mineiro – Squad Size and Key Players** As of **2024**, Hulk plays for **Atlético Mineiro (Brazilian Série A)**, a side with a **25-man senior squad**. Some key colleagues include:
- **Everson (GK)** — Reliable shot-stopper
- **Jemerson (CB)** – Defensive leader - **Nacho Fernández (MF)** – Creative midfielder - **Paulinho (FW)** — Prolific striker
Hulk remains the **team’s captain and talisman**, contributing with goals, assists, and leadership.
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## **Top 5 Most Amazing Moments of Hulk’s Career**
### **1. The Thunderbolt Against Chelsea (2012 UEFA Champions League)** ⚽ **Match:** Zenit Saint Petersburg vs. Chelsea (UCL Group Stage) 📅 ** Date:** October 2, 2012
Hulk established himself in the **Champions League** with a **stunning 30-yard rocket** against Chelsea. Cutting in from the right, he fired a **unstoppable left-footed strike** that soared past Petr Čech. Though Zenit lost 3-2, this goal highlighted his **raw power and precision**, winning global recognition.
### **2. Porto’s Invincible Season (2010-11 – Primeira Liga & Europa League Double)** 🏆 ** Achievement:** Undefeated league season plus Europa League championship
Under **André Villas-Boas**, Hulk was unstoppable in **Porto’s historic 2010-11 campaign**. He scored **23 league goals**, enabling Porto go **unbeaten** (27 wins, 3 draws) and **win the Europa League**, where he netted important goals. His collaboration with **Radamel Falcao** was famous.
### **3. Free-Kick Masterclass vs. Benfica (2011 Super Cup) ** 🎯 ** Match:** Porto vs. Benfica (Portuguese Super Cup) 📅 **Date:** August 7, 2011
Hulk’s **incredible free-kick technique** was on full show as he **curled a 35-yard rocket** into the top corner against Benfica. The sheer drop and power left the goalie useless, clinching a **2-1 victory** and another title for Porto.
### **4. Hat-Trick for Brazil against. South Africa (2014 Friendly) ** 🇧🇷 ** Match:** Brazil vs. South Africa (International Friendly) 📅 **Date:** March 5, 2014
In a rare **Brazilian national team start**, Hulk silenced doubters with a **sensational hat-trick**, including a **long-range screamer**. His performance demonstrated he could shine on the greatest stages, even in a star-studded Seleção group.
### **5. Atlético Mineiro’s Title-Winning Heroics (2021 Brasileirão)** 🏆 **Achievement:** Leading Atlético Mineiro to **first league title in 50 years**
After returning to Brazil, Hulk **scored 19 goals** in the **2021 Brasileirão**, helping Atlético Mineiro to its **first league title since 1971**. His leadership, crucial goals, and assists made him a **club legend**, demonstrating age was only a number.
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## **Conclusion: Hulk’s Legacy** From **Porto’s dominance** to **Zenit’s heroics** and **Atlético Mineiro’s revival**, Hulk has constantly produced **jaw-dropping moments**. His **power, talent, and longevity** made him one of the most unusual attackers in football history.
Whether it's **long-range screamers, free-kick brilliance, or title-winning performances**, Hulk’s career is a tribute to **hard effort and explosive talent**.
Would you like any extra details or a certain area expanded? Let me know! 💥⚽