Pelé's matches did not seem to have as many spectacular moments as Diego Maradona's.
That was due to the era.
They had been limited by broadcasting technology and the ball itself.
Early footballs had been quite heavy. Forget technique—anyone who could do tricks with one had to have tremendous strength in his feet. Back then, once the ball got even a little wet, it became a sodden lump. Saying it weighed several times more than later balls was no exaggeration.
The seams on leather balls had also been rather deep, limiting what players could do technically.
Even so, some geniuses had still emerged. Objective conditions could hardly restrain such absurdly gifted players.
Pelé and his compatriots had been among the most outrageous group of players in the world.
Watching footage of Brazil from that era, some moments even felt like watching Fabregas's Arsenal at their peak. The Brazilians had completely overcome the problems caused by the ball and the pitch through sheer ability.
Having drawn the old king of football, today was the perfect chance for a showdown of the century with old Maradona.
Baresi stood by the door and handed the captain's armband to Dejan Lu again.
This time, Dejan Lu did not refuse.
The first time he had faced old Maradona on the pitch, he had still been playing for Sampdoria and had worn the captain's armband. This could be considered bringing things full circle.
Totti helped Dejan Lu put the armband on his left arm, and the entire Milan squad strode out of the away dressing room with vigor.
Their opponent had a huge reputation but limited strength, and the match had drawn plenty of attention.
There was no easier game in which to make a name for oneself.
Even if veteran players were somewhat more composed,