A gallant comeback
The brilliant Brazilians staged a gallant comeback, outclassing Italy 4-1 in the ninth World Cup Football final in Mexico City on June 21 in 1970.
The win gave Brazil its third World Cup title, which allowed them to permanently keep the Jules Rimet Trophy, and a new trophy was introduced in 1974. The victorious team, led by Carlos Alberto and featuring players such as Pelé, Gérson, Jairzinho, Rivellino, and Tostão, is often cited as the greatest-ever World Cup team. They achieved a perfect record of wins in all six games in the finals, as well as winning their entire qualifying fixture.
The eventual champions beat Czechoslovakia 4-1, England 1-0, Rumania 3-2 in the group stage, Peru 4-2 in the quarterfinals, Uruguay 3-1 in the semifinals before meeting Italy in the final.
On the other hand, Italy beat Sweden 1-0, drew with Uruguay 0-0 and Israel 0-0 in the group stage, Mexico 4-1 in the quarterfinals, and West Germany 4-3 in the semifinals.
Critics have identified match between Italy and West Germany as the greatest soccer match so far played in the World Cup. In another thrilling match, West Germany came back strongly from 0-2 deficit to beat England 3-2.
Sixteen national teams from five federations took part in the final round held in five cities of Mexico. Ninety-five goals were scored in 32 matches being watched by 50,127 spectators per game. West Germany’s Gerd muller was the top scorer with 10 goals.
Final position was Brazil, Italy, West Germany and Uruguay.
Khurshida Hena
Pabna
