How many world titles Santos have and their impact on the club’s reputation | OneFootball

FIFA recognises Santos as two-time world champions, a status forged in the 1960s and central to the club’s global standing. According to Diario Do Peixe, the governing body has repeatedly confirmed the tally. In Brazil, only São Paulo have more.

Those crowns came via the old Intercontinental tournament, which FIFA deems of equal value to its Club World Cup. The new expanded, 32-team edition staged every four years does not alter Santos’ record.

They beat Benfica home and away. A 3-2 win at the Maracanã featured two from Pelé and one from Coutinho. In Lisbon, they swept the return 5-2, Pelé hitting three and Coutinho two.

Against Milan, Santos lost the first game in Italy 4-2, facing a side led by Brazilian forward José Altafini, known as Mazzola. They levelled the tie with a 4-2 victory at the Maracanã, Pelé and Coutinho scoring twice. Two days later Dalmo converted a penalty to win the decider 1-0.

That dominance reflected an extraordinary generation. Pelé was supported by Pepe and Coutinho, with Gilmar, Zito, Mauro and Mengálvio also starring, and the team’s global tours amplified its fame.

The club returned to the world stage in 2011. After beating Kashiwa Reysol in the semi-final of the updated FIFA competition, Neymar’s Santos were outclassed 4-0 by Messi’s Barcelona in the final.

Opportunities might have been greater, as Santos even declined Libertadores entries in 1966 and 1969. Supporters will hope the next era adds to a storied tally.

Source: Diario Do Peixe