Jairzinho was very Special at Mexico 1970

Jairzinho’s rise to stardom in the World Cup

Jairzinho made his international debut at the age of just 19 in 1966 against England at the Goodwill Games held in the United States. He played a key role in Brazil’s win during that friendly match. After that, he became a regular starter for the Seleção and scored his first goal during the final match against Bulgaria at the 1966 World Cup. However, Brazil ended up as runners-up in that tournament after they were defeated in a penalty shootout by England. Jairzinho was an undisputed starter throughout the 1970 World Cup qualification campaign and scored two goals during those matches. During the group stage in the World Cup, he scored a crucial goal against Czechoslovakia that ensured Brazil’s progression to the knockout stage. He was also one of the heroes in the final match against Italy as he scored two goals to help Brazil win the tournament. Jairzinho was once again a constant threat during the tournament as he managed to score six goals in total.

A short overview of his career before 1970

Jairzinho’s international debut came in 1966, and he would play a role in Brazil’s victories in the World Cup the next year and in 1970. He was the youngest player on the team in 1966 and the only one to be born in the 1940s. He scored seven goals in his first 12 international appearances (all in friendlies), including a hat trick in an 8-0 win over the Philippines in 1967. He was part of the Brazilian team at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, where he scored a 19th-minute goal in a 2-0 win over Yugoslavia in the final. Jairzinho was a member of the Brazilian team that won the 1970 World Cup. He scored two goals in the tournament, including one in the final against Italy.

The 1970 Mexico World Cup

The 1970 World Cup was held in Mexico. The tournament was one of the most spectacular in history and also the most controversial one. The host nation was widely criticized for the biased officiating during the whole competition and many football experts argue that the team from Brazil should have been crowned the World Champions. Brazil’s starting line-up during that tournament included the fantastic trio of Jairzinho, Rivelino, and Carlos Alberto; one of the most incredible trios in football history. Jairzinho, a dynamic right-winger, played a key role in Brazil’s triumph as he scored two goals to help the team win the trophy. He was also one of the most prolific players during that competition as he managed to score six goals in six matches.

Jairzinho after the World Cup

After the 1970 World Cup, Jairzinho remained a starter for the Seleção for the rest of his international career. He was one of the most important players for the team during that period and played a crucial role in Brazil winning the 1973 and 1979 Copa America titles. He is also remembered for scoring a dramatic goal against Peru at the end of the extra-time that helped Brazil win the 1979 Copa America. After spending 12 years with the Seleção, Jairzinho ended his international career in 1980. In addition to his achievements with the Brazil national team, Jairzinho won three São Paulo State League titles, three Rio de Janeiro State League titles, two Brazilian Cup titles, and one Torneio Rio-São Paulo title at the club level.

Final Words

Jairzinho was one of the stars of the Brazilian team that won the 1970 World Cup. He was the youngest member of the squad and was the only player in the starting 11 who was born after World War II. He was one of the most prolific scorers in the tournament, scoring six goals in six matches. After the World Cup, he remained a starter for the Brazil national team for the rest of his career and won two more Copa America titles. Jairzinho was a key member of the 1970 Brazilian squad that is widely considered one of the best teams ever. He is also remembered as one of the most important players on that team thanks to his excellent performances.