Pele’s unforgettable visit to Indonesia in 1972

• Pele scored a penalty to help Santos win 3-2

• Over 100,000 spectators filled the Gelora Senayan Main Stadium to witness Pele’s performance

• Pele won three FIFA World Cup titles with Brazil in 1958, 1962, and 1970

Shilarze Saha Roy

In the summer of 1972, the anticipation in Indonesia was palpable as the legendary Pele, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, graced the shores of Jakarta. Born on October 23, 1940, in Tres Coracoes, Brazil, Pele’s meteoric rise to stardom began at a young age. He burst onto the international scene during the 1958 FIFA World Cup when, at just 17 years old, he led Brazil to their first-ever tournament victory. Known for his mesmerizing skills, exquisite technique, and uncanny ability to score goals, Pele became an icon of the beautiful game. He possessed incredible speed, agility, and an unparalleled understanding of the sport. Throughout his career, Pele amassed an astounding record of 1,281 goals in 1,363 matches, a feat that remains unrivalled. His accolades include three FIFA World Cup titles with Brazil in 1958, 1962, and 1970 and numerous domestic and international honours with Brazilian club Santos.

For football enthusiasts in Indonesia, the opportunity to host a player of Pele’s stature was a dream come true. His visit in 1972 turned into an event of unparalleled magnitude as the iconic Bung Karno Main Stadium, now known as Gelora Senayan Main Stadium, stood ready to bear witness to Santos’ friendly against the Indonesian national football team. The arrival of Pele also showcased Indonesia’s growing influence in the world of football. The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) spared no effort to bring Pele and his Santos team to Indonesia. A hefty sum of $40,000 was spent, coupled with an additional $5,000 for travel tickets, to ensure that the world’s best player would showcase his skills on Indonesian soil. The financial commitment certainly demonstrated the country’s desire to promote football and establish itself as a prominent destination for international sporting events. Hosting Pele was also an opportunity for Indonesian players to test themselves against a footballing legend. Sharing the pitch with such an esteemed figure provided a chance for local talent to learn, grow, and measure their skills against the best in the world. It was an occasion that would be etched in their memories, serving as a source of inspiration for generations to come.

One day before the much-anticipated match, Pele engaged in an interview session with Indonesian sports journalists, where he exhibited his friendly and down-to-earth persona. Despite his unparalleled achievements, Pele remained humble and approachable. The conversation revolved around his remarkable career, with Pele revealing that he only had two years left on his Santos contract before retirement. He fondly reminisced about Brazil’s 1958 World Cup triumph, a milestone that marked the emergence of a young prodigy, with Pele himself becoming the youngest goalscorer in the tournament’s history. The stage was set for an unforgettable showdown. On June 21, 1972, the Gelora Senayan Main Stadium buzzed with over 100,000 spectators eager to witness Pele’s magic. The spotlight was on the Brazilian legend as he took the field, and the audience watched his every move with bated breath. Santos dominated the game, winning 3-2, with Pele showcasing his brilliance by converting a penalty. However, the Indonesian public, hopeful for an exhibition of Pele’s trademark flair, were left wanting more. Even tensions flared during the match when Pele was involved in a clash with Indonesian midfielder Iswadi Idris. A brief moment of confrontation ensued, but order was soon restored as the players were separated. Despite the victory, Pele’s performance left the Jakarta fans yearning for the mesmerising skills they had witnessed from afar.

The disappointment was also echoed by Tempo Magazine in their July 1, 1972 edition, stating that Pele’s presence fell short of the mythical aura that had been associated with him. Critics were quick to point out the disparity between the spectacle promised and the reality experienced. Tempo Magazine noted that the lacklustre performance, coupled with on-field incidents that disrupted the flow of the game, resulted in frustration from the disappointed audience. However, Pele’s visit to Indonesia in 1972 remains an intriguing chapter in the country’s footballing history. While the match may not have lived up to the grand expectations, the memory of Pele’s presence and his legacy as one of the greatest football players of all time continues to resonate with Indonesian fans to this day.