Mario Zagallo, the inaugural individual to achieve victory in the FIFA World Cup as both a player and a coach, played a pivotal role in propelling Brazil to its status as a dominant force in global football.
Zagallo, who passed away at the age of 92 on Friday, stood as the sole surviving member of the 1958 Brazil team that secured the country's first World Cup title, a triumph that alleviated the anguish of a heartbreaking defeat to Uruguay at the Maracana eight years earlier.
Recalling the devastating loss to Uruguay, Zagallo, who was present as a soldier tasked with maintaining order on the pitch, expressed the enduring memories of the silence, sadness, and disappointment that permeated the nation. His iconic teammate, Pele, passed away in December 2022.
Despite the lingering memory of that defeat, Zagallo sought redemption by contributing to four of Brazil's five World Cup victories. Rising from the ranks of amateur football in the 1950s, the diminutive left-winger exemplified Brazil's pursuit of a blend between attacking flair and defensive solidity, showcasing exquisite technique and unwavering commitment.
Zagallo, who won five Rio de Janeiro state championships with Flamengo and Botafogo, made his Brazil debut at 26, shortly before the 1958 World Cup. He became an integral part of the team, earning 37 caps. His notable achievements included scoring a goal and setting up Pele for the final goal in the 1958 final against the hosts, Sweden.
In the following World Cup in 1962, Zagallo played every minute as Brazil, inspired by Garrincha, overcame Pele's injury to retain their title. After retiring as a player, Zagallo transitioned to coaching, achieving success with Botafogo and later guiding the national team to victory in the 1970 World Cup in Mexico.
His coaching prowess extended beyond Brazil, leading Kuwait to a Gulf Cup victory in 1976 and reaching the Asian Cup final that same year. In 1994, as technical director, he played a role in Brazil's World Cup triumph in the United States, securing a fifth title for the nation. Zagallo's relentless pursuit of glory and enduring legacy made him a prominent figure in Brazilian football, earning him the nickname "The Professor."
