Brazilian football icon Mario Zagallo, celebrated for winning four World Cups with Brazil as a player and coach, has passed away at the age of 92. This news was confirmed through a post on his official Instagram account on Saturday. Zagallo, renowned for his prowess as a tough and talented left winger, was instrumental in securing Brazil's first World Cup victory in 1958 and played a key role in retaining the title in 1962, as reported by Reuters. His most significant coaching achievement came in 1970 when he led a Brazilian squad, featuring legends like Pele, Jairzinho, Rivellino, and Tostao, to victory in Mexico. This team is often hailed as one of the greatest national teams in the history of football. Zagallo's triumph in 1970 marked him as the first individual in football history to win the World Cup both as a player and a manager. Zagallo's legacy continued as he served as an assistant coach under Carlos Alberto Parreira, leading Brazil to their fourth World Cup title in 1994 in the United States. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his condolences, noting Zagallo's unparalleled impact on the World Cup. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has declared a seven-day mourning period in his honor. Similarly, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) mourns the loss of the only individual to have won the World Cup four times. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva extended his condolences to Zagallo's family, friends, and his "millions of admirers" on social media. Zagallo was adored by Brazilian fans for his unique personality and staunch nationalism. He was known for claiming that he was born with victory by his side and often challenged critics who labeled his teams as overly defensive. One of Zagallo's most memorable moments occurred after Brazil's Copa America win in Bolivia in 1997. Overcoming the odds in La Paz's high altitude, an emotional Zagallo famously shouted into the television cameras, "You're going to have to put up with me!" This phrase has since become a popular expression of vindication among Brazilians. — Agencies
