Legendary Saves & Lifelong Bonds: Pelé Pays Tribute to Gordon Banks
Pele recently shared his heartfelt memories of the Gordon Banks magic that once saved the world and bound two greats in an enduring friendship.
The Moment in Mexico City
Back in 1970, at the Estadio Jalisco during a historic World Cup clash, Banks performed a defensive miracle that even the Brazilian legend still gasps about:
- England faced a relentless header by the Mexican side.
- Without a plan, Banks leapt, pushed the ball up, and catapulted it out of reach.
- Pele reflected, “I still can’t believe how he moved so far, so fast.”
From 1966 Glory to 1970 Heroism
While England’s 1966 World Cup triumph was a team achievement, Banks’s 1970 save cast a spotlight that defined his legacy.
Pelé’s Take on the Epic Save
“The save was one of the best I have ever seen – in real life and all the thousands of matches I’ve watched,” Pele—now 78—shared on social media. He called it an aerial choreographic wonder that left even the seasoned striker in awe.
Friendship Born From a Save
For Pele, the moment was more than a goalie’s triumph. It was the spark that sparked a lasting friendship between the two football titans. “Whenever we met, it felt like we’d never been apart,” the Brazilian superstar reminisced.
In celebrating the departure of Banks, aged 81, Pele’s tribute reminds us that a single, brilliant moment can forge bonds that last a lifetime.
Remembering a Legend: The Goodbye Tribute to Gordon Banks
It was a vivid reunion of football icons at a London press‑conference held on March 4, 2004 to unveil the FIFA 100 – the world’s greatest footballers. Brazilian king Pele and England’s own Gordon Banks shared a heartfelt embrace, a quiet nod to the man who made goal‑keeping a true art.
Words From The Greats
Bobby Charlton – who shared the 1966 World Cup triumph with Banks – offered a moving tribute: “Rest in peace, my friend. You were a goalkeeper with magic, but you were so much more. You were a fine human being.” He proudly recalled his partnership, saying, “Even after all these years, I never forget how you stopped Pele’s header in 1970.”
England’s current manager Gareth Southgate reflected on a night that brought the team together: “It was especially special to have an all‑time great at the Football Writers’ tribute dinner last year. Gordon talked about that shocking save against Brazil in 1970—one of the best moments ever.”
From across the Atlantic, the German squad paid their respects on Twitter: “A fierce opponent and a good man. Rest in peace, Gordon Banks #DieMannschaft.”
Legacy That Lives On
- England’s current first‑choice keeper Jordan Pickford shared a video of the iconic Pele save, calling it “one of the greatest saves of all time. RIP Gordon Banks.”
- Former Everton star Neveile Southall, who was coached by Banks, posted a heartfelt note: “He taught me goal‑keeping and was a gentleman. He changed how we viewed the position.”
- FIFA joined the chorus of sadness: “Once a champion, always a champion. We are deeply sorry to hear of the death of @England World Cup winner @thegordonbanks.”
- Veteran keepers Ray Clemence and Peter Shilton spoke confidently, “We had big shoes to fill, but Gordon set the gold standard.”
A Tribute Beyond the Numbers
Gordon Banks did more than line up a 73‑cap record; he set a benchmark that reshaped English goal‑keeping. From a decisive save in 1970 to his calm composure in the elevation of the sport, he was a mentor and a friend. His sudden passing after an accident in the 1970s left football bereft, but his spirit and legacy survive in every goalkeeper who follows his path.
