It's been 45 years, but every time the name Pele is mentioned in a casual gathering (adda), those 11 players who faced him on that memorable September 24, 1977, afternoon at Eden Gardens inevitably become part of the conversation. This speaks to the enduring fascination of the exhibition match between New York Cosmos and Mohun Bagan, which ended in a 2-2 draw. For me, it remains the pinnacle of my career, having had the privilege of playing against the greatest footballer of all time. As I pen this first-person account of that match, I can't help but feel that, thanks to Pele, we continue to hold a special place in football discussions. Even after 45 years, when Pele and his awe-inspiring football skills are being discussed in an adda somewhere in the city, Mohun Bagan and all those associated with that memorable match will still find themselves relevant and remembered.