Brazil 1970: How the Greatest Team of All Time Won the World Cup

In "Brazil 1970: How the Greatest Team of All Time Won the World Cup," acclaimed journalist Samindra Kunti unravels the electrifying saga of soccer’s most iconic squad. Kunti traces the rise of Brazil’s 1970 World Cup team, masterfully blending the drama of international football with deeper themes of national identity, politics, and the evolution of the beautiful game. The book explores how Brazil, under the shadow of a military dictatorship and a skeptical nation, transformed from the disappointment of 1966 to the dazzling artistry that defined the 1970 tournament. Kunti’s storytelling brings to life the vibrant atmosphere of the World Cup in Mexico, capturing the passion, pressure, and sheer brilliance of Brazil’s campaign.
Samindra Kunti highlights the revolutionary tactics of Mario Zagallo, the only man to win the World Cup as both player and coach, and the genius of players like Pelé, Gerson, and Tostão. Their seamless teamwork and balletic skill made Brazil synonymous with soccer excellence, forever changing how the world viewed football. Kunti details how this squad, once doubted and discredited at home, mesmerized global audiences with an attacking style that combined flair, intelligence, and technical mastery—a brand of football that became legendary.
Throughout the book, Kunti illuminates the tension between the old guard and the emerging technocrats who sought to bring science into soccer. He examines how Brazil’s golden era came to an end even as they lifted the trophy, marking the 1970 team as the last of its kind—free-spirited and untethered by rigid systems. The narrative delves into the players’ personal stories, the political backdrop, and the cultural shifts that shaped not just Brazilian football, but the worldwide perception of the sport.
Samindra Kunti’s deep expertise and engaging prose make "Brazil 1970" essential reading for anyone passionate about soccer, World Cup history, or the broader intersections of sport and society. By weaving together rich detail, exclusive interviews, and sharp analysis, Kunti cements his reputation as a leading voice in football journalism. His book is a tribute to the artistry and legacy of a team that set the gold standard for the world’s game—a must-read for fans, historians, and anyone who loves the magic of the World Cup.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Published: May 25, 2026
Price: £12.99
Hardback: 272 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1836802877
Dimensions: 246 x 286 (mm)