The 1970 edition of the World Cup produced events that would change the history of football forever. This edition was staged in Mexico and was the ninth FIFA world Cup which was eventually won by Brazil. Below are some historic events that happened then and would reshape football.
Brazil Keeping the trophy
Following a 4-1 win over Italy in the final, Brazil won their third World Cup and as a result earned the right to permanently keep the Jules Rimet trophy.
First Subs
Before the 1970 World Cup, Substitute players were not allowed in the tournament. This however changed as the this edition became the first ever World Cup to allow the introduction of players who were not in the starting line up.
Yellow and Red Cards
For the first time at a World Cup Finals, referees could issue yellow and red cards. yet, in contrast to the previous tournaments (besides the 1950 edition) and all subsequent tournaments to date, no player was expelled from play. The officiating of the opening match, commentated by some media as overly strict set a standard of discipline that instead helped protect skillful players in accordance with FIFA’s stated wish.