Pele is the first football global star who made the world fall in love with the game, dies at the age of 82. He was admitted at the Albert Einstein Hospital in his home town in Brazil’s Sao Paulo since November 29 with complications related to colon cancer which was diagnosed in September 2021.
His face appeared tired and worn out in a photo taken with his children and grandchildren just days before he passed away, as if the passage of time had taken a toll on both his appearance and demeanor. But there was still a glow, an ageless, immortal glow that perhaps not even death could snuff out when he smiled that unmistakable bright-eyed smile of his.
On his Instagram account, the only player to win the World Cup three times was confirmed to have passed away. Pele, whose real name was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, was remembered for his many accomplishments, both on and off the football field. The memorial post on Pele's social media page emphasized the athlete's global appeal and made reference to a time during the Nigerian civil war when rival factions agreed to a ceasefire so that fans could watch a game Pele played there.
The Vila Belmiro Stadium, outside of Sao Paulo, Brazil, where he spent many years playing with the Santos football team, will host a public funeral. Before being buried in the middle of the field, the coffin is expected to pass in front of the home of his mother, Celeste Arantes, who is 100 years old.
On Monday and Tuesday of next week, the public may pay their respects there.
Brazil won three World Cup championships in 1958, 1962, and 1970 under Pele, who is widely regarded as the most talented player to ever play the game. Having 77 goals in 92 games, he continues to be Brazil's leading goal scorer.
Pele praised performances by captain Lionel Messi, rising France star Kylian Mbappe, and surprise semifinalist Morocco after Argentina's World Cup victory on December 18 in Qatar. He also posted a photo of his team lifting the trophy on social media.
Banners with the image of the football legend and well wishes for his recovery were flown by Brazil players and supporters in Qatar both on and off the field.
Pele, a great soccer legend whose example of tenacity and love for the game transcends generations. We appreciate your talent for lightning up the field. To his family and the entire nation of Brazil, we at 11ic extended our condolences.
Peace be with you, Pele. We appreciate the happiness you gave football fans everywhere.
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