Pelé, the Brazilian football legend, would have turned 85 today. He passed away on December 29, 2022, at the age of 82.
What made Pelé great?
Pelé made history with Santos, the New York Cosmos, and the Brazilian National Team. He played in four World Cups.
The World Cup wins
Pelé won three World Cups: 1958, 1962, and 1970. His emergence in Sweden 1958, at just 17 years old, amazed the planet.
The numbers
Pelé's impact is measured in nearly unreachable records. He scored 1,283 goals in 1,366 matches.
Pelé's total numbers underscore his absolute dominance in the area. Although FIFA officially credits him with 77 goals in 91 matches with Brazil, the Brazilian Football Confederation raises the count to 95 goals in 115 matches.
And his throne, in the history of football, is and always will be his. The 1970 World Cup in Mexico is considered by many as his "masterpiece," a display of talent that crowned what many consider the greatest team of all time.
Pelé left an indelible mark, not only for the number of times he made the nets tremble but for the spectacular way he did it. He was born in Três Corações, Minas Gerais, in 1940.
So on his 85th birthday, the world of football commemorates the legacy of Pelé. His legacy remains the ultimate expression of art, joy, and heart in the sport.
The Brazilian Football Confederation and fans around the world remember Pelé's incredible career. He will always be remembered as the King of Football.
Pelé's records may never be reached. But his impact on the sport will always be felt. He was a true legend, and his legacy will live on.