This Day in History: 2023-06-16

Nr. 477

PELÉ STARTS THE ROUT (1970)

A majestic leap by arguably the world’s most complete footballer put in place the first piece of a historic jigsaw when Brazil met Italy on 21 June in the 1970 World Cup final. The outcome of a titanic battle between two Latin sides – one from Europe, the other from the Americas – would be permanent possession of the Jules Rimet trophy. Italy and Brazil had each won it twice; victory in Mexico City entitled them to keep it. In the 18th minute Italy’s hopes nosedived when Rivelino crossed from the left. Pelé rose to head downwards and this time there was no Gordon Banks to make a near-impossible save.

There have been many great Brazil teams through the years. The group that travel led to Mexico in 1970 was one of the very best.