Calado started his career in Clube Desportivo Lisboa e Águias, a small club in Lisbon.
In 1948, the 21-year old fulfilled a life dream of playing for Benfica when Ted Smith selected him to start against Olhanense on 29 December.
[3][4][5] His best seasons were in 1954–55 and 1955–56, when he assumed a starting role alongside Alfredo Abrantes and Fernando Caiado, playing 27 games in the first year and 15 in the second.
[6][7][8][9] He played his last game for Benfica on the 1958 Taça de Portugal Final lost to Porto.
After the end of his football career, he continued representing Benfica, playing 11 more years in the rugby section.