Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning François Duvalier across Soccer.
The novel reimagines the life of Haitian striker Joseph Édouard Gaetjens, weaving together Haitian society, jazz culture, and the politics of sport.
Haitian author Dimitry Elias Léger’s latest work resurrects the forgotten tale of Joseph Edouard Gaetjens, the Haitian-born forward whose decisive goal against England in the 1950 World Cup remains a symbol of triumph and tragedy.
On June 29, 1950, the United States defeated England 1-0 in a World Cup match that became known as the 'Miracle of Belo Horizonte.' The victory, achieved by an amateur team of teachers, dishwashers and students, reshaped football history, though its impact was largely forgotten at home.
Joe Gaetjens scored the only goal in the United States' 1-0 victory over England at the 1950 World Cup, a moment that still shapes narratives of sport, identity, and exile.
Joe Gaetjens scored the winning goal for the United States against England in the 1950 World Cup, later vanished under François Duvalier's regime, and his story is being revived through literature, documentary and the upcoming 2026 tournament.