Pelé

Pelé was the nickname of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, a Brazilian footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of soccer.

Pelé was the nickname of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, a Brazilian footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of soccer. He played as a forward and won three FIFA World Cups with Brazil. Pelé died on 29 December 2022 at age 82.

Early life

Edson Arantes do Nascimento was born on 23 October 1940 in Três Corações, Brazil. He became known worldwide by the nickname Pelé.

Club career

Pelé spent most of his club career with Santos, then later played for the New York Cosmos in the United States. Sources differ on how total career goals are counted, but FIFA and BBC cite about 1,282 to 1,281 goals in first-class or all matches.

International career

Pelé debuted for Brazil in 1957 and became the youngest player to win a World Cup, at age 17. He won the tournament three times, in 1958, 1962, and 1970, the only player to do so.

Legacy

Pelé was widely described as a global sporting icon and one of the most famous footballers of the 20th century. He was also named FIFA co-Player of the Century in 1999.