Author: Soorya G
South American soccer powerhouse Brazil celebrated the 53rd anniversary of its iconic 1970 World Cup victory on Wednesday. The title was won under the command of the legendary Mario Zagallo, who had also triumphed in the competition as a player just a few editions earlier. The president of the Brazilian Football Confederation, Ednaldo Rodriguez, congratulated each member of the winning team, while the nation rejoiced at marking more than half a century since its historic victory.
“That team was truly unforgettable. The soccer of our stars in Mexico and the celebration of the fans for Brazil are part of my life to this day. On this date, I would like to congratulate all the players, Zagallo, who led the team with wisdom, and the other members of the delegation for the historic achievement of Brazilian soccer in 1970“, said Rodrigues.
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With the victory, the Brazilians became the first team to win the World Cup three times and, in the process, also made the great Pelé the most decorated player in World Cup history. After emerging victorious at the 1958 and 1962 World Cups, Pelé was tied with several of his team-mates before his achievement led him to become the sole holder of the record, which still stands today.
By the way, Mario Zagallo is the only person to have won the World Cup as both a player and a coach. The 91-year-old, who took an intense part in the celebrations, won the World Cup a record four times, winning twice as a player, as a coach in 1970 and as an assistant coach in 1994.
Brazil faced Italy in the 1970 World Cup final in Mexico and took the lead in the 18th minute with a header from Pelé that opened the scoring. The Italians equalized, but Brazil dominated them, with the last goal coming from a fine pass from Pelé to captain Carlos Alberto Torres, who sealed the game 4-1. A special feature of the Brazilian team was the contingent of five strikers: Pelé, Gérson, Jairzinho, Rivellino and Tostão. Of Brazil’s 19 goals in the tournament, 17 were scored by these five players.