This Day in History: 2023-06-21

Nr. 480

RAZIL DELIVERS COUP DE GRACE (1970)

The bulging of the Italian net in the 86th minute of their 1970 World Cup final performance capped an imperious Brazilian victory. The Jules Rimet trophy – the World Cup itself – became a permanent possession of the Brazilian Football Federation the moment another Brazilian move of flair and skill was launched, appropriately enough, by captain Carlos Alberto.
His run towards the Italian penalty area from the right had alerted Pelé, who with consummate precision placed the ball in his path. All the Brazilian skipper had to do was shoot accurately and hard, and the ball flashed inside the far post past a beaten Italian goalkeeper.
In defeating Italy so impressively 4-1 in Mexico City, Brazil had won not only the World Cup, but possibly also one of the finest finals ever. What’s more, the Brazilian squad had endured, despite pre-tournament organisational difficulties, having new manager Maria Zagalo appointed at short notice, the high altitude conditions of Mexico and searing summer temperatures.

Fittingly, captain Carlos Alberto rounded off the emphatic win with a memorable finish.