Tell me a bio of José Cardozo.

Include key facts about their life, career, achievements, and impact.

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José Cardozo is a Paraguayan former professional footballer who played as a striker. Born on March 19, 1971, in Asunción, Paraguay, Cardozo is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Paraguayan football history.

**Early Life and Career**

Cardozo began his football career at the age of 10 with Club Olimpia, a prominent Paraguayan club. He quickly rose through the ranks and made his professional debut in 1990. Cardozo's impressive performances earned him a move to Club Cerro Porteño in 1993, where he spent two seasons before joining Club Olimpia again in 1995.

**International Career**

Cardozo made his international debut for Paraguay in 1991 and went on to earn 89 caps, scoring 25 goals. He represented his country at three Copa América tournaments and played in the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups.

**Club Career**

Cardozo's club career spanned over two decades, during which he played for several clubs in Paraguay, Mexico, and the United States. Some of his notable clubs include:

* Club Olimpia (1990-1993, 1995-1997, 2000-2002)
* Club Cerro Porteño (1993-1995)
* Club Necaxa (Mexico) (1997-1999)
* Club América (Mexico) (1999-2000)
* Club Olimpia (2000-2002)
* Club Guadalajara (Mexico) (2002-2004)
* Club Olimpia (2004-2005)
* Club Guadalajara (Mexico) (2005-2006)
* Club Olimpia (2006-2007)
* Club Guadalajara (Mexico) (2007-2008)
* Club Olimpia (2008-2009)
* Club Guadalajara (Mexico) (2009-2010)
* Club Olimpia (2010-2011)

**Achievements and Impact**

Cardozo's impressive career was marked by numerous achievements, including:

* 3-time Paraguayan Primera División champion (1993, 1995, 2002)
* 2-time Paraguayan Primera División top scorer (1995, 2002)
* 1-time Mexican Primera División champion (2000)
* 1-time Mexican Primera División top scorer (2000)
* 1-time CONCACAF Champions' Cup winner (2000)
* Paraguayan Footballer of the Year (2002)

Cardozo's impact on Paraguayan football extends beyond his impressive career statistics. He is widely regarded as a national hero and an inspiration to young footballers in Paraguay. His dedication, work ethic, and passion for the sport have made him a beloved figure in Paraguayan football culture.

**Post-Retirement**

After retiring from professional football in 2011, Cardozo went on to become a football analyst and commentator. He has worked with various media outlets, including ESPN and TyC Sports, providing expert analysis and commentary on football matches and tournaments.

In 2018, Cardozo was inducted into the Paraguayan Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy in Paraguayan football.
José Cardozo is a retired Paraguayan professional footballer who played as a striker. Born on March 19, 1971, in Pedro Juan Caballero, Paraguay, Cardozo is considered one of the greatest players in Paraguayan football history.

**Early Life and Career**

Cardozo began his football career at a young age, joining the youth academy of Cerro Porteño, one of the most successful clubs in Paraguay. He made his professional debut in 1990 and quickly established himself as a talented striker. In 1996, Cardozo moved to Independiente in Argentina, where he played for two years before joining Cerro Porteño again in 1998.

**International Career**

Cardozo made his international debut for Paraguay in 1991 and went on to earn 83 caps, scoring 25 goals. He represented his country at three Copa América tournaments, in 1993, 1995, and 1999, and played in the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

**Career Achievements**

Cardozo's impressive club career includes:

1. 7 Paraguayan championships with Cerro Porteño and Independiente
2. 2 Paraguayan Golden Ball awards for the best player in the country
3. 1998 South American Top Scorer (in the Copa Libertadores)
4. 1998 South American Top Scorer
5. Cerro Porteño's all-time leading scorer
6. Paraguay's all-time leading scorer in international competitions

**Impact and Legacy**

Cardozo's impact on Paraguayan football is immense. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the country's history, and his achievements on the field have inspired a generation of players. In 2009, Cardozo was inducted into the IFFHS Legends of Football, recognizing his contributions to the sport. He remains a beloved figure in Paraguay, and his legacy continues to inspire football fans in the country.