Pavel Nedv?d is a retired Czech footballer who played as a midfielder. Described as one of the best footballers of his generation, he is also regarded as one of the most successful players to emerge from the Czech Republic, winning domestic and European accolades with Italian clubs Lazio and Juventus. Nedv?d was a key member of the Czech team which reached the final of Euro 1996, during which he attracted international attention. He also captained the national team at Euro 2004, where they were defeated in the semi-final to eventual champions Greece, and Nedv?d was named as part of the Team of the Tournament. Furthermore, Nedv?d helped his team qualify for the World Cup for the first time since the breakup of Czechoslovakia. Due to his performances, as well as his quick and energetic runs during matches, Nedv?d was nicknamed Furia Ceca by Italian fans and The Czech cannon in English-language media. Winning the Ballon d'Or as European Footballer of the Year in 2003, Nedv?d was the second Czech player to receive the honour and the first since the breakup of Czechoslovakia. 

August 30th, 1972 in Cheb (Age 52)