Samudio: Eliza

What followed was a campaign of terror. Eliza reported Bruno to the police for kidnapping and assault. She claimed he had held her captive for several days and threatened to kill her if she didn’t terminate the pregnancy.

But behind the fame and the gloves, there was a rage so profound that it led to one of the most brutal femicides in Brazilian history. Eliza Samudio was a 25-year-old former model and aspiring actress. In 2009, she met goalkeeper Bruno through a mutual friend. They had a brief relationship that resulted in her becoming pregnant. Eliza Samudio

In February 2010, Eliza gave birth to a son, Bruninho. Bruno initially seemed to accept his paternity. He asked Eliza to meet him in Rio de Janeiro to settle child support. It seemed like a step toward resolution. What followed was a campaign of terror

Eliza was shamed in the press before her death. Tabloids called her a gold-digger. They questioned her character. It was only after Bruno’s conviction that the narrative shifted to see her as a victim. But behind the fame and the gloves, there

When Eliza told Bruno she was keeping the baby, his reaction was not one of shock or negotiation. According to court testimony, it was one of war. He allegedly offered her money for an abortion. She refused.