This Day in History: 2023-03-13

Nr. 423

BOBBY CHARLTON KICK-STARTS WORLD CUP RUN (1966)

Manager Alf Ramsey had unshackled Bobby Charlton for England’s second game in the 1966 World Cup tournament. In the 16 July match against Mexico he gave the Manchester United star a free-ranging role behind strikers Geoff Hurst and Roger Hunt – much deeper than in the disappointing first match against Uruguay – and Charlton responded. Picking up the ball deep in the 37th minute he ran 30 yards before unleashing a long-range screamer into the Mexicans’ net. Hunt capped the day with a second goal 15 minutes from time, but it was Bobby’s goal that convinced a hopeful nation that England could emerge as ultimate victors.

Mexico goalkeeper Ignacio Calderon is beaten by Bobby Charlton’s thundering shot for the goal that set England on their way in 1966.