The world of football mourns Pelé’s departure at the age of 82, but his achievements and all his records are worth highlighting. The same happened with his style of play, which could be seen even by hundreds of Peruvians more than 50 years ago. The phenomenon unleashed by this star of the king of sport filled stadiums and caused a lot of excitement. Was a February 6, 1966 that “O Rei” entered Melgar Stadium in Arequipa near Avenida Independencia to commandeer Santos and face off against a “hard-nosed” FBC Melgar.
How was Pele’s arrival in Arequipa?
According to the Dechalaca portal, Santos came to Peru several times from Brazil, and in 1966 the team had to play outside of Lima for the first time: it was a single duel against Peru FBC Melgar in Arequipa. The Brazilian’s arrival, along with other figures such as Dorval Rodrigues and Mengálvio Pedro Figueiró, meant a $20,000 investment paid for by the southern sports institution and the Aurora club.
Before the clash in Arequipa, Santos drew against Universitario and defeated Alianza Lima. In this way, he came to Mistland with two losses, but with a desire to succeed. The foreign team didn’t have it easy, however, as Dominó at the time consisted of a winning duo, the brothers Márquez Obando (Óscar and Eduardo “Patato”).
Jaime Soto, Alfredo Salinas, Armando Palacios and Hugo Paredes along with Pelé. Photo: Centennial Special Photo / Wilder Pari
How was the Melgar vs Saints of Pele match?
It was a tough game and the difference was marked by the Arequipeños in the 40th minute; however, it ended in a draw. The Márquez brothers did their thing and unbalanced the Brazilian goal. Óscar sent in a cross and then ‘Patato’, now considered Melgar’s idol, scored with a header.
“I caught one of the many balls that landed in front of my feet and shot up a bit, then felt the stands collapse with the thunderous applause of a goal won. I will keep this moment as one of the best memories of my football life,” Eduardo Márquez told journalist Wilder Pari in 2015.
The goal made the Brazilians react and shortly afterwards, in the 59th minute, the visitors’ goal came from a strong left-footed shot by player Toninho. The fight for victory was constant and although Pelé tried to score, he couldn’t due to the good work of red-black captain Armando Palacios, who annulled the three-time world champions.
Armando Palacios goes to Pelé’s mark. The stadium looks crowded. Photo: Centennial Special Photo / Wilder Pari
“Pélé was exceptional, he had a good jump, he kicked with his left and right leg. I played football and so did he,” Palacios said seven years ago.