How elite football players' bodies have changed over 50 years: taller, faster, older
By
Fernando Duarte
Summary
The article examines how elite football (soccer) players' bodies have transformed over the last 50 years, using the iconic fourth goal of Brazil against Italy in the 1970 World Cup final as a starting point. It contrasts the playing style, athleticism, and physiology of players from that era with modern football, where sports science, nutrition, and training have produced faster, stronger, and more physically demanding athletes. A specialist argues that the famous 1970 goal, built on slow, methodical passing, would be nearly impossible in today's game due to increased defensive pressure, tactical systems, and superior athletic conditioning.
Source
bskyHow elite football players' bodies have changed over 50 years: taller, faster, olderwww1.folha.uol.com.brKey quotes
· 3 pulledO quarto gol da seleção contra a Itália na final de 1970 é considerado um dos maiores momentos da história das Copas.
Dois gols históricos ocorridos na Copa do Mundo da Fifa de futebol masculino contam a história de uma transformação radical do futebol e do corpo dos seus atletas de elite.
Em 30 segundos tensos e espetaculares na Copa de 1970, no México, a seleção brasileira trabalhou a bola com oito jogadores, até o poderoso chute a gol do capitão e lateral-direito Carlos Alberto Torres (1944-2016).
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