1967 Pan Am Football Team

Achievements:

• Pan American Games Silver Medalists: 1967

Biography:

The 1967 Pan American Football Team is often debated as possibly the best football team ever to come out of Bermuda. This legendary squad achieved an unparalleled milestone by securing a silver medal at the Pan American Games, a feat unmatched by any other Bermudian football team.

Led by the prolific Carlton 'Pepe' Dill, who scored five goals in the tournament, Bermuda’s journey was marked by remarkable victories and fierce competition. The team triumphed over the United States and Trinidad and Tobago before facing Mexico in the final. Despite a hard-fought 90-minute battle that ended 0-0, Bermuda conceded four goals in overtime, narrowly missing the gold medal. Nonetheless, the silver medal stood as a significant achievement, underscoring the team's exceptional performance.

The tournament began with a 2-2 draw against hosts Canada, with Dill netting both goals. Bermuda's campaign gained momentum with a resounding 7-3 victory over the US. Following a 1-1 draw with Cuba, where the game was memorable not only for the on-field action but also for the soldiers lining the pitch due to political tensions, Bermuda secured second place in their group. In the semifinals, they overcame Trinidad and Tobago, who had previously defeated Argentina, with a convincing 3-1 victory.

The final against Mexico was far from one-sided. In the last minute of regular time, a chance to win the game presented itself to a young Clyde Best, but his shot skimmed the crossbar, leading to overtime where Mexico scored four goals. Despite the heartbreak, the silver medal was a historic achievement for Bermuda.

Key Players:

• Carlton 'Pepe' Dill: Top scorer with five goals, instrumental in leading the team.

• Clyde Best: Former West Ham star, only 16 years old during the tournament, later cemented his place in the Hall of Fame.

Legacy:

Carlton 'Pepe' Dill emphasized the team's collective effort, stating, "It was a team effort." This sentiment is echoed by the immense talent within the squad, including the young Clyde Best, who would later become a football legend.

The 1967 Pan Am Football Team's silver medal remains a landmark achievement in Bermuda's sporting history. Their journey, marked by skill, determination, and teamwork, continues to inspire future generations of Bermudian athletes. Their legacy is a testament to what can be achieved through unity and perseverance on the international stage.