In 1958, in Sweden, the player made history, despite having only entered the field in the very final
Djalma Santos (1929-2013) was predestined. In 1958, in Sweden, the Brazilian team was qualified for the final and would face the home team. De Sordi, the starting right back of the team led by Vicente Feola, was feeling pain and informed the coaching staff. Immediately, the reserve was called in and performed exemplarily. In 1962, in Chile, he was the absolute owner of the number two shirt.
Djalma is considered one of the best right-backs in the world by FIFA. The two-time champion was born in Uberaba, Minas Gerais. In 1958, despite being a reserve, he was already a veteran. He played in the 54, 58, 62 and 66 World Cups, and stood out in the Portuguesa and in the immortal “academy” of Palmeiras. He took to the field in almost 500 games wearing the alviverde shirt.
One of Djalma’s weapons was to charge the full-back with great force into the area: it looked like a corner. Numerous publications consider him the best right-back in the world. The “lord”, as he was known, ended his career at Atlético-PR and became a coach.
One of the most memorable moments in Djalma Santos’ career took place on October 23, 1963. The England team faced a team made up of stars from around the world, in celebration of one hundred years since the publication of football rules. Among the stars invited to participate in that historic duel, the full-back was the only Brazilian.
Going through the Jovem Pan archives, I found an interview that Djalma gave to Vander Luiz, in 2007. I hope you enjoy getting to know this star’s story a little more.
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
