This Day in History: 2023-03-10

Nr. 422

BRAZIL SURVIVE BULGARIA ASSAULT (1966)

It was a great year for England, but a miserable one for World Cup-holders Brazil. They arrived for their opening match at Everton’s Goodison Park on 12 July having had a build-up disrupted by internal team politics and met Bulgaria, who seemed more interested in inflicting pain than playing football. Pelé was a particular target, although two fouls on him resulted in the game’s two goals – one by Pelé himself and the other from ‘Little Bird’ Garrincha. It was the last time the two Brazilian stars played together, ending a run of 40 winning matches for Brazil whenever the two teamed up.

Pelé receives treatment from the Brazilian trainer as referee Kurt Tschenscher warns Bulgaria’s hatchet men to watch their tackles.