This archive report was first published on 14 June 2020.
On June 14, 1970, the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Mexico kicked off, featuring a star-studded cast of players from around the world. The tournament was a groundbreaking event that would change the face of football forever.
While the 1966 World Cup in England was the first to be broadcast live, it was shown in black and white. The 1970 tournament, however, was shot in colour, and the iconic moments from the competition are still remembered today in all their technicolour glory.
Brazil's yellow, blue, and green jerseys glowed in the sunshine as they took to the pitch, and their performances on the field were nothing short of spectacular. The team, led by the legendary Pele, was a force to be reckoned with, and their third World Cup win was a testament to their skill and determination.
"I was at my peak," Pele said. "We had a fantastic side and everyone expected us to win, which gave me the shakes." His strike partner Tostao wrote in his column in Brazilian newspaper Folha that Pele "wanted to end his international career with a great triumph, both individually and collectively, so no one would have any doubts that he was the best of all time."
The quarter-finals were a thrilling series of knock-out games, with Italy beating hosts Mexico 4-1 and Brazil defeating Peru 4-2. The tournament was a defining moment in football history, and its impact can still be felt today.
