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The day a dog wanted to play football and almost succeeded

   Football as always has been a game with a lot of surprises and funny moments with bizzare stories all over the fields one of which happened in the biggest event in world football -the world cup- in 1962 in Chile involving a dog. In a match between Brazil and England no less, held at Estadio Sausalito in Vina Del Mar. A match of this caliber was and has been one to showcase an array of talents and the best football, instead another player was showcased and this time a four legged one . 

As the match was underway, a stray dog suddenly ran onto the pitch, delighting fans and disrupting play. The small black dog darted around the field, evading everyone who tried to catch it. Players and officials alike joined in the chase, but the dog was far too quick and playful, turning the World Cup match into an impromptu comedy show.

Among all the chaos, England’s forward Jimmy Greaves took a unique approach. While others tried to grab or corner the dog, Greaves got down on all fours, attempting to appear less threatening. His tactic worked: the dog came to him, wagging its tail in trust. But just as Greaves successfully held the dog, it did something truly unforgettable—it urinated on him!

Greaves later joked that this moment might have been his most famous contribution to football, despite his illustrious career. The incident left players and fans roaring with laughter, even as the game resumed.

Brazil’s legendary winger Garrincha, known for his extraordinary dribbling skills and joyful personality, was so charmed by the dog that he decided to adopt it after the game. The dog became a symbol of that lighthearted moment in an otherwise serious tournament, living happily with Garrincha afterward.

In a competition as intense as the World Cup, moments like this remind us of the joy and unpredictability of football. The 1962 tournament was significant for Brazil, as they went on to win their second consecutive title, but the dog incident remains one of its most delightful and enduring anecdotes.

Decades later, fans still talk about that pitch-invading pup. It’s a story that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of football: unpredictable, entertaining, and full of heart. It also highlights how even the most unexpected characters—like a stray dog—can steal the show on football’s grandest stage. 

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