Garrincha, two-time world champion, from the People’s Joy to a broken toy | OneFootball

Manuel Francisco dos Santos, better known as Garrincha, was Brazil’s free spirit, a dribbling genius and double World Cup winner. His grave in Magé hails him as the People’s Joy, yet alcohol undid him.

El Periódico Mediterráneo notes he overcame childhood polio and crooked legs, one six centimetres longer. Spurned by big clubs, he dazzled Botafogo trials by beating Nilton Santos.

He debuted for Botafogo in June 1953 at 19, and a month later hit a hat-trick in a 6-3 win over Bonsucesso, earning a Brazil call within two years.

Before 1958, a psychologist warned against picking him, saying bottles sat where his brain should be, but coaches ignored it. Alongside a teenage Pelé, he missed the first two games, then the magic arrived against the USSR.

Brazil then beat the USSR, Wales and France, before defeating hosts Sweden 5-2 in the final to clinch the title.

In Chile four years later he led after Pelé was injured against Czechoslovakia. He assisted Amarildo in a 2-1 win over Spain, then scored twice against England and hosts Chile to reach the final.

He was sent off in the semi-final for alleged aggression. The CBF, supported by prime minister Tancredo Neves, asked FIFA chief Stanley Rous to pardon him. FIFA agreed, he uniquely played the final after a red card, and Brazil beat Czechoslovakia 3-1.

At England 1966 he scored a free-kick v Bulgaria, then Brazil lost to Hungary and Portugal. He died of cirrhosis on 20 January 1983, aged 49.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo