The Battle of Santiago
How Chile and Italy squared off in the World Cup's most notorious match in 1962.
How Chile and Italy squared off in the World Cup's most notorious match in 1962.
In the latest in a World Cup series, we go back to 1962 and probably the most violent match in the history of the tournament. Described by BBC commentator David Coleman as a "stupid and disgusting exhibition", the confrontation between Chile and Italy was marred by spitting, kicking and punch-ups between the players. It is now known as the Battle of Santiago. Richard Murie talks to the former Chilean defender, Humberto "The Cheetah" Cruz.
(Photo: The aftermath of a heavy challenge in the Battle of Santiago. Credit: Getty Images)