People with long memories remember the name, Pele, who played in Jamaica in the fall of 1975. This was his second visit to the island and at this time Pele had become a member of the New York Cosmos. Also, he was undoubtedly the ambassador of this beautiful game called football (soccer). With his smiling face, he won the hearts of many Jamaicans. Even though he was now in his mid-thirties, he was regarded as the greatest footballer of all time.
Most importantly, Pele’s 1975 trip to Jamaica was one of the most popular trips of a celebrity anticipated by Jamaicans. Upon his arrival, Jamaicans gave a historical welcome. Pele played two games in Haiti before Kingston. He arrived on a private jet. Passing lines of fans along the way, he went to visit Prime Minister. As Pele met the press and public, one of his young fans asked, “Is there any footballer greater than you?”
“Only one, my father,” Pele responded.
Battle of the Giants
The match took place on the night of September 21. It was regarded as the “Battle of the Giants.” This match was touted heavily as a showdown between Pele and Alan ‘skill’ Cole.
In this match, Pele led the Cosmos against Alan Cole, who was Jamaica’s giant. Cole himself was a legend in his time. He had a great journey from a magical schoolboy player to a mighty club forward. No doubt, Cole had enormous talents and peerless ability. For that reason, he was able to read plays even before they occurred. Cole remained in total command of the field throughout the match.
Early photo of Alan Skill Cole
As compared to any other Jamaican footballer of his generation, Cole had reached further. In the late 60s, he had experience in the North American league. Also, he played for Nautico in Brazil. Most importantly, Cole decided to return home even he could have gone further. He first met Pele in 1971. At that time, he was only 21 years old.
The night Pele played in Jamaica was memorable. There were thousands of Jamaican fans who filled up the stadium seats. These fans believed they were seeing the closest thing ever to a real-life World Cup experience. There was a roar that greeted Pele and Cole. Unfortunately, neither the king nor his team was in good form. Also, Pele fell victim to a dangerous tackle an hour into the game. After he limped off the field, the fans endured the rest of an aimless game. In the end, Santos takes the trophy with a 1 goal win over the opponents.
4 Reasons Why Jamaicans Cheer for Brazil
Undoubtedly, it is a dream of football fans to cheer a team on to victory in the World Cup. Brazil is the one of the main teams supported by Jamaicans. Almost every Jamaican loves the Brazilian football team. They just love its popular “banana shots” and “salad” moves. For that purpose, Brazil has held a special place in Jamaica’s soccer heart. Jamaicans cheer for Brazil for so many reasons.
Let’s take a look at some key reasons why Jamaicans love Brazil football.
Bob Marley who was great friends with Alan Skill Cole was known to don his Brazilian jersey on many occassions even to perform on stage.
Pele
Do you know Pele is one of the biggest reasons why Jamaicans cheer for Brazil? This love affair with Brazil is exemplified by their love for Pele. He is popularly known as the all-time greatest football player. When Pele played in the World Cup in 1958, he was just 17 years old. He displayed unparalleled skills that made him second to none in this beautiful game. He also brought Brazil its first-ever World Cup trophy. The Jamaicans still go crazy when they watch the performance of Brazil in 1970.
A Relatable Team
For Jamaicans, Brazil is more than just a team. No doubt, this team brought a sense of accomplishment and pride for all people of color. It is a relatable team for Jamaicans. For that reason, Jamaicans love to cheer for Brazil.
Brazilians are Winners
Wondering what makes Jamaicans go crazy? Remember, they love winners. As Brazil won the World Cup several times, they are the ultimate winners for Jamaicans. Brazil is the only team that has played in every single World Cup tournament. Also, it is the team that has won the World Cup five times. Therefore, Brazil is the most successful team when it comes to World Cup competitions.
Football Style of Play
Undoubtedly, everyone loves the Brazilian style of play. There is no wonder why Jamaicans cheer for Brazil. It is the only team with a huge fan following. Even the Santos of Jamaica copied Brazil’s sense of uniform and style. Indeed, the Brazilian style of football is second to none in the World. That’s the main reason why Brazil is home to so many famous football stars.
The biggest upset ever in Manning Cup history
