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Football Icon Mario Zagallo Dies at 92

In a sorrowful turn of events, Mario Zagallo, the iconic Brazilian football legend, and the first individual to achieve victory in the FIFA World Cup as both a player and coach, has passed away at the age of 92.
Zagallo played a pivotal role in Brazil’s ascent to global football dominance and was the lone surviving member of the Brazilian squad that secured the 1958 World Cup trophy – a victory that served as a poignant redemption for the nation after a heartbreaking defeat to Uruguay at the Maracana eight years earlier.

Reflecting on the traumatic loss to Uruguay, Zagallo vividly recalled the national mourning that ensued, stating, “I’ll never forget the silence, the sadness, and the disappointment of that defeat.”

His legendary teammate, Pele, had previously passed away in December 2022.

Despite the lingering memory of the 1950 defeat, Zagallo sought solace by contributing to Brazil’s subsequent World Cup triumphs. Emerging from the amateur ranks during the 1950s as a skillful left-winger, he seamlessly blended attacking flair with defensive prowess, earning 37 caps for Brazil.

Zagallo played a crucial role in Brazil’s 1958 victory, scoring a goal and setting up Pele for the final goal in a 5-2 triumph over the hosts in Sweden. In 1962, he played every minute as Brazil retained their crown in Chile. Following his playing career, Zagallo transitioned into coaching, leading Brazil to their third World Cup title in 1970.

His coaching journey extended beyond borders, managing clubs in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. In 1994, Zagallo, as technical director, played a pivotal role in Brazil’s World Cup victory in the United States, guided by his protege Carlos Alberto Perreira.

Zagallo’s tireless pursuit of glory continued, reaching its pinnacle in 2002 when he briefly stood in for Luiz Felipe Scolari after Brazil’s fifth World Cup triumph. Known as “The Professor,” Zagallo’s enduring legacy and indomitable spirit have left an indelible mark on Brazilian football.

Ronaldo, acknowledging Zagallo’s immense contributions, remarked, “He was one of the greatest Brazilian players of his generation and, after winning the World Cup four times, he has left a permanent mark on Brazilian football.”

The passing of Mario Zagallo follows that of his wife, Alcina de Castro, in 2012, ending their 57 years of companionship.

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