Full Name: Edson Arantes do Nascimento
Date of Birth: October 23, 1940
Date of Death: December 29, 2022 (Age: 82)
Cause of Death: Colon cancer, and multiple organ failure syndrome
Height: 1.73 meters (5 feet 8 inches)
Nationality: Brazilian
Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder
Ethnicity: Afro-Brazilian
Dominant Foot: Right
Number of Children: 7
Notable Child: Edinho
Father's Name: Dondinho
Football Career:
Club Career:
Santos (1956–1974):
Pelé began his professional career at Santos in Brazil, where he became a global icon. Over the 18 years he spent at the club, Pelé won numerous domestic and international titles, including two Copa Libertadores titles (1962 and 1963). He is considered one of the greatest players in the history of the club, helping elevate Santos to global prominence.
New York Cosmos (1975–1977):
After his time at Santos, Pelé moved to the New York Cosmos in the United States, where he ended his professional playing career. His time in the U.S. helped popularize soccer in the country, and his presence in the Cosmos was instrumental in growing the sport in America during the 1970s.
International Career with Brazil:
Brazil National Team:
Pelé is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers to ever play for the Brazil national team. He led Brazil to three FIFA World Cup victories, a record that remains unmatched:
1958 in Sweden: Pelé won his first World Cup at just 17 years old, scoring two goals in the final against Sweden.
1962 in Czechoslovakia: Pelé again helped Brazil win the World Cup, although he was injured early in the tournament, but Brazil still triumphed without him in the final.
1970 in Mexico: Pelé's 1970 World Cup victory is often considered the pinnacle of his career. He played a key role in Brazil's third World Cup title, showcasing some of the finest football ever seen. His performance in this tournament remains legendary, particularly his goals and all-around contribution to Brazil's dominant display.
Total Matches and Goals for Brazil:
Pelé played 92 international matches for Brazil and scored 77 goals.
Skills and Attributes:
Dribbling and Movement:
Pelé was renowned for his speed and dribbling ability, often evading defenders with ease and creating opportunities for his team. His low center of gravity and sharp turns made him an exceptional dribbler.
Shooting and Attacking Ability:
Pelé possessed an incredible ability to score goals from any position, with powerful shots and remarkable accuracy. He was particularly dangerous from set pieces and had a unique style of finishing.
Vision and Passing:
Pelé had exceptional vision on the field, able to pick out teammates with precise passes. He could link play between midfield and attack seamlessly, making him an all-around offensive threat.
Achievements and Honors:
World Cup Titles:
1958 (Sweden): World Cup Champion
1962 (Czechoslovakia): World Cup Champion
1970 (Mexico): World Cup Champion
Club Titles:
Copa Libertadores: Twice with Santos (1962, 1963)
Copa do Brasil: With Santos
Individual Awards:
FIFA World Player of the Century: Pelé was named the FIFA Player of the Century in 1999 (jointly with Diego Maradona).
Ballon d'Or (Honorary): He was awarded an honorary Ballon d'Or in 2014 for his legendary career.
Other Positions:
Minister of Sport in Brazil (1995–1998):
After retiring from football, Pelé served as Brazil's Minister of Sport from 1995 to 1998, contributing to the development of sports in the country.
Legacy and Influence:
Global Icon:
Pelé is not only considered one of the greatest footballers in Brazilian history but also one of the greatest athletes of all time. His impact transcended the football field, as he became a symbol of excellence and a global ambassador for the sport.
Pelé’s Family:
Pelé fathered seven children, and his son Edinho also became a professional footballer.
Death:
Pelé passed away on December 29, 2022, at the age of 82 after a prolonged battle with colon cancer and multiple organ failure syndrome. His passing was a monumental loss for football fans worldwide. His legacy continues to live on through the generations of players he inspired and the many records and memories he created during his incredible career.
