The US players were semi-professionals, with goalkeeper Frank Borghi, who played a starring role in his side’s win, driving a hearse for his uncle’s funeral parlor as his day job.
Ben McLaughlin actually withdrew from the tournament because he could not get time off work. England, who had Tom Finney and Billy Wright in their ranks, dominated the first half but Joe Gaetjens headed the US in front.
They were better after half-time but Borghi pulled off a sublime save to deny Jimmy Mullen and they held on for a remarkable victory.
1899: Leeds’ Headingley groundplays host to its first Test when England and Australia fight out a low-scoring draw.
1958: A 17-year-old Pele (below) scores two goals as Brazil win their first World Cup with a 5-2 win over host nation Sweden.
2009: Wimbledon’s new Centre Court roof is used for the first time after rain interrupts the Dinara Safina v Amelie Mauresmo match.