The Jairzinho World Cup goal in the 1970 final remains one of football's most celebrated moments, captured beautifully in Michael Donald's iconic portrait. This photograph tells a story of passion, legacy, and the universal appeal of the beautiful game.
The Quest to Photograph Every World Cup Final Goalscorer
In 2007, photographer Michael Donald realized that only 58 people had ever scored a goal in a World Cup final, and just 34 of them were still alive. This sparked an ambitious project to photograph every living member of that exclusive club. With support from a film producer, Donald traveled to 13 countries over four years, creating portraits and conducting interviews.
Jairzinho: Brazilian Legend and Community Hero
Jair Ventura Filho, known as Jairzinho, scored Brazil's third goal in the 4-1 victory over Italy in Mexico City. Today, he works with underprivileged children in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro. Donald's portrait was taken in the Manguinhos neighborhood, where Jairzinho runs a football school. The shoot required hiring local security, as favelas have unwritten rules about outsiders.
Behind the Shot: A Gift from a Bar
As the team was leaving, Donald spotted a beautiful old football table outside a bar. He asked for ten more minutes, and Jairzinho happily posed. Using a Hasselblad with a digital back and a tripod, Donald captured this candid moment with natural lighting, assisted by a small light held by his assistant.
Comparison: World Cup Final Goalscorers by Era
| Decade | Number of Goalscorers | Still Alive (2007) |
|---|---|---|
| 1930-1950 | 12 | 2 |
| 1954-1970 | 18 | 8 |
| 1974-1990 | 16 | 12 |
| 1994-2006 | 12 | 12 |
Key Takeaways from This Football Photography Project
- Only 58 players have ever scored in a World Cup final, making it an elite club.
- Jairzinho's goal in 1970 remains a highlight of Brazilian football history.
- Documentary photography requires patience, security, and spontaneous moments.
- The portrait captures Jairzinho's connection to his community in Rio's favelas.
FAQ
Who is Jairzinho in football history?
Jairzinho is a Brazilian World Cup legend who scored the third goal in the 1970 final against Italy, helping Brazil win 4-1. He is known for his speed and skill on the wing.
What makes Michael Donald's photograph of Jairzinho special?
The portrait captures Jairzinho in a candid moment near a football table in a Rio favela, blending his football legacy with his current community work. It's part of a rare project documenting every living World Cup final goalscorer.
How many people have scored in a World Cup final?
As of 2007, only 58 players had scored a goal in a World Cup final, with 34 still alive at that time. This exclusive club includes legends from across the globe.
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