On A Day Like Today: Pelé in the inaugural Trofeo Naranja

On June 24th, 1959, Valencia CF fans were able to watch the legendary Edson Arantes do Nascimento, AKA ‘Pelé’ in the flesh. He was a participant in the first edition of the Trofeo Narana, in which he became the first ever goalscorer in the summer event held by the club.

The Brazilian got his goal just past the half hour mark for Santos against Valencia CF, in a duel of attacking football that ended with a spectacular 4-4 scoreline.

Valencia CF had actually been interested in signing Pelé two years earlier. Technical Secretary Eduardo Cubells had travelled to Brazil in 1957 on the express instructions of club President, Luis Casanova, to convince the 16 year old to join. His lack of European experience, and Santos' unwillingness to sell him, meant that the player who would win the World Cup in 1958, 1962 and 1970 would not end up wearing the Valencia CF shirt during his playing career.

In 1959 the Trofeo Naranja was a triangular tournament, in which Internazionale also participated. Mestalla had floodlights for the first time, allowing for night kickoffs during the hot months in Valencia.

With the stands completely full, those in attendance were treated to a 4-4 draw. Egea and Aveiro both scored braces for Valencia CF. Santos would beat Inter 7-1 thanks to four goals from Pelé, whilst Valencia CF did so 1-0, meaning the Brazilian side took home the inaugural trophy.