The Greatest World Cups: Mexico 1970

The 1970 FIFA World Cup, held in Mexico from the 31st of May to the 21st of June, was a tournament that marked a turning point in football history. Brazil became the first nation to win the World Cup three times, meaning they permanently retained the Jules Rimet Trophy.

Tournament Overview

The 1970 World Cup featured sixteen teams from across the globe, competing in thirty-two matches across four venues in Mexico. The tournament was the first to be televised in colour, and its high-profile matches captivated millions of viewers worldwide. On the way to lifting the trophy, Brazil beat the reigning world champions (England), the reigning South American champions (Uruguay) and the reigning European champions (Italy).

Prominent Teams and Key Players

Brazil
Brazil, under coach Mário Zagallo, dazzled the world with their attacking football. The team featured legendary players such as Pelé, Jairzinho, and Tostão, all of whom were instrumental in Brazil’s title-winning campaign. Pelé, in particular, cemented his status as one of the greatest players of all time with his stunning performances throughout the tournament.

Italy
Ferruccio Valcareggi’s Italy were a well-balanced side. Tough-tackling defender Giacinto Facchetti, the team’s captain, led a solid backline. They were also extremely dangerous on the counterattack, with creative midfielder Sandro Mazzola and strikers Gigi Riva and Roberto Boninsegna always posing a threat to opposition defences.

West Germany
West Germany were one of the tournament’s most impressive sides, reaching the semi-finals. Players such as Franz Beckenbauer and Gerd Müller (who won the golden boot with ten goals) were pivotal in their run, demonstrating the precision and efficiency of German football.

Notable Matches

Brazil vs. England (Group Stage)
In the most highly anticipated match-up of the group stages, holders England lost one-nil to the tournament favourites, Brazil. The match gave us three iconic moments: Gordon Banks’ incredible save from a Pelé header, Bobby Moore’s perfectly-timed tackle on Jairzinho, and the image of Moore and Pelé swapping shirts and hugging at full-time.

West Germany vs. England (Quarter-Final)
West Germany knocked out England, winning three-two in a pulsating match. Although England were two-nil up, goals from Franz Beckenbauer and Uwe Seeler levelled the match and Gerd Müller’s extra-time winner gave Germany revenge for their 1966 defeat in the final at Wembley.

Italy vs. West Germany (Semi-Final)
In what became known as the “Game of the Century”, Italy went ahead early on but West Germany scored a last-minute equaliser to take the game to extra-time. Both sides took the lead during a rollercoaster period until Italy secured a four-three win with a goal from Gianni Rivera, sealing their place in the final.

The Final: Brazil vs. Italy

The final took place on the 21st of June at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, with an attendance of one hundred and seven thousand spectators. Pelé opened the scoring with a brilliant header, and Italy responded with a powerful goal from Roberto Boninsegna. However, Brazil’s attacking superiority proved decisive as they went on to win four-one, with goals from Gérson, Jairzinho, and Carlos Alberto, the latter scoring one of the most memorable goals in World Cup history.

Legacy of the 1970 World Cup

The 1970 World Cup is remembered for its breathtaking football, Brazil’s attacking brilliance, and Pelé’s iconic performances.

Brazil’s Golden Generation
Brazil’s victory is often seen as the pinnacle of team football, with a squad that combined individual brilliance with collective cohesion. The team’s style of play, often referred to as “samba football”, was a perfect blend of flair, technique, and teamwork.

Pelé’s Glory
Pelé’s performances in 1970 secured his place as one of the greatest players in football history. His presence in the tournament, including his incredible goals and assists, ensured his status as the face of the World Cup.

Iconic Moments
The 1970 World Cup is also famous for moments such as Carlos Alberto’s brilliant goal in the final, considered one of the greatest goals ever scored in a World Cup. The tournament highlighted the beauty of attacking football, and its influence continues to shape the way the game is played today.

In conclusion, the 1970 FIFA World Cup remains a landmark tournament, celebrated for its extraordinary football, iconic players, and memorable moments that have become part of footballing folklore.