Eighteen years since Telê Santana passed away, his impact as the coach who reshaped São Paulo FC in the 1990s endures. Under his guidance, the team clinched top honors, including the defeating top teams in La Liga and Série A alongside winning the Copa Libertadores and the Intercontinental Cup.
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São Paulo’s domination in 1992 – 1993
In 1992, Santana’s strategy of balancing a disciplined defense with an explosive offense earned São Paulo the Campeonato Paulista title. This win kicked off their notable run in the Copa Libertadores, ending in an exciting penalty shootout victory against Argentina’s Newell’s Old Boys.
The season’s highlight was defeating Barcelona 2-1 in the Intercontinental Cup at Tokyo National Stadium. Santana’s tactical prowess was evident as Raí, the team captain, scored both goals.
In 1993, São Paulo continued to dominate by winning the Copa Libertadores again, defeating Chile’s Universidad Católica in the finals. Telê Santana showed his ability to adapt strategies on-field and make smart plays throughout the tournament.
The year concluded with another victory in the Intercontinental Cup, where São Paulo defeated A.C. Milan 3-2 in a match filled with strategic shifts and impressive individual performances.
Telê Santana’s impact on São Paulo and world football remains significant, celebrated through his strategic innovations and leadership.
Telê Santana’s Awards at São Paulo FC
Here’s a list of awards and accolades won by Telê Santana during his time as the coach of São Paulo FC:
1. Copa Libertadores:
- 1992: Won against Newell’s Old Boys (Argentina)
- 1993: Won against Universidad Católica (Chile)
2. Intercontinental Cup:
- 1992: Won against Barcelona (Spain)
- 1993: Won against A.C. Milan (Italy)
3. Campeonato Paulista:
- 1991: São Paulo emerged as the state champions under his leadership.
4. Recopa Sudamericana:
- 1993: Won against Cruzeiro (Brazil)
- 1994: Won against Botafogo (Brazil)
5. Supercopa Sudamericana:
- 1993: Defeated Flamengo (Brazil) in the finals.
These titles emphasize Santana’s successful time at São Paulo FC, showcasing his skillful strategy and leadership that led the team to wins at home and abroad.
Olê, Olê, Olê, Olê, Telê Telê.
Remembering Zagallo
Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.
The first and second episodes are available on Sambafoot’s Youtube channel and the series will receive weekly releases to tell this legend’s life story.
