July 8, 1968 – Pele’s Boston debut

Jamaica national team forward Lloyd McLean’s 25^th-minute goal opened the scoring, Pelé and Santos FC then dominating for a 7-1 victory over the Boston Beacons at Fenway Park. Toninho scored twice for Santos, equalizing in the 33^rd minute, Pelé converting the go-ahead goal. According to Peter Gammons’ story in The Boston Globe: “ … Although he only scored once and assisted on one goal (Pelé) proved to be one of the most exciting athletes anyone has seen in this area.” Bob Sales’ column compared Pelé to James Brown, Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, Sandy Koufax and Bobby Orr.

July 8, 1968 – Boston Beacons 1:7 Santos FC at Fenway Park (Att.: 18,431)

Santos’ tour would extend to Nigeria, where a ceasefire was called for a game in Lagos on Jan. 26, 1969. [Bobby Kennedy pictured with Pelé following Brazil’s 2-2 draw with the Soviet Union at Estadio Maracana Nov. 21, 1965].