The Brazilian won the World Cup in 1958, 1962 and 1970. Here, three men who came face-to-face with the striker reveal their experiences
The Brazilian won the World Cup three times. Here, three men who came face-to-face with the striker reveal their experiencesPhotograph: Action Plus Sports Images/AlamyPhotograph: Action Plus Sports Images/Alamybefore this tournament in Sweden. By the end – when he had scored twice in the final at the age of just 17 – he had become a household name. The great Swedish winger Kurt Hamrin recalls a “rare talent” who was humble and kind.
When we met a few times later in his career, he was the best in the world. I particularly remember a friendly in Stockholm against Brazil before the World Cup in England in 1966. Then he did something I had never seen before. Directly from the kick off he shot from the centre circle when our goalie stood far out. The goalkeeper barely made it back and tipped the ball over the bar, but the audience applauded and laughed at the bold attempt.
When we played Brazil in 1962 they were the reigning world champions and we lost the game 2-0. We knew we would have a tough game and so it proved. Mário Zagallo and Pelé scored the goals. We held out until the 56th minute but then Zagallo scored and it was an uphill battle just getting the ball after that. Pelé – who else – scored the second goal, which killed the game. I am honoured to have shared a pitch with Pelé.
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