When the game was a tool to control the masses
In the bad old days of Brazil's dictatorship, even the off-field movements of Pele were monitored
As Brazil considers reviewing military-era amnesty laws, former players have recalled how, even in the days of Pele, the 1964-1985 dictatorship regarded the game as a tool to keep popular revolt in check.
Next month, Brazil will embark on their quest for a sixth World Cup crown in a country where the cost of the event has angered many and where the relationship between the game, the fans and politicians has been a balancing act down the years.
The Selecao won their first World Cup in 1958 and added another in 1962, just two years before the generals seized power.
Football meant so much to me. But I was socially engaged during that tough period
For Afonso Celso Garcia Reis, better known as Afonsinho and a former midfielder with Rio de Janeiro side Botafogo, soccer and politics were difficult to reconcile in those days.
Strong leftist views marked him out. So, too, did a flowing beard which the authorities dubbed a sign of dangerous non-conformism.
Though he won domestic titles, a national side picked by a confederation stocked with military placemen ensured Afonsinho never wore the national colours.
"I had principles and paid a price," Afonsinho said.
"They labelled me a possible leader of a subversive movement," reminisced the white-haired 66-year-old.