Eh! 7 June 1970, Guadalajara, Mexico. Brazil vs England. The defending champions facing the soon-to-be champions. Jairzinho whipped in a cross from the right. Pelé rose like an EAGLE, head met ball perfectly, and the king HEADED it down towards the corner of the net. The goal was certain. Pelé shouted 'GOAL!' as the ball flew towards the bottom corner. Then, somehow, Gordon Banks DIVED across his goal, scooped the ball OUT of the air with his right hand, and over the bar. The SAVE OF THE CENTURY!
Year: 1970 Match: Brazil vs England Location: Estadio Jalisco, Guadalajara Round: Group Stage Category: Save
The Moment
- Pelé met Jairzinho's cross with a powerful downward header destined for the bottom corner of the net
- Gordon Banks dived across his goal and palmed the ball OVER the crossbar with his right hand
- Pelé had already started celebrating, having shouted 'GOAL' as he made contact with the ball
- The save is widely considered the greatest goalkeeping moment in World Cup history
- Pelé later said: 'At that moment I hated Gordon Banks more than any man in soccer'
The Verdict
Banks vs Pelé in 1970 is the GREATEST save in football history. The world's greatest forward, perfect header, certain goal — and the world's greatest keeper said NO. The reflexes, the technique, the impossible angle, the AUDACITY. Pelé himself called it the greatest save he ever saw with his own eyes. PERFECTION captured in 0.5 seconds!
Tomorrow: #3 — Stay tuned for the next magical World Cup moment!
