Discover the life, career, and legacy of Pelé, the greatest football player of all time. From his World Cup wins to his records, this is the ultimate guide to the Brazilian legend.
Who is Pelé?
Pelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, is widely regarded as the greatest football player in history. He won 3 World Cups with Brazil (1958, 1962, 1970) and scored over 1,000 career goals. His skill, speed, and creativity made him a global icon.
Quick Facts About Pelé
- Full Name: Edson Arantes do Nascimento
- Born: October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil
- Died: December 29, 2022 (aged 82)
- Position: Forward (Striker)
- Clubs: Santos FC, New York Cosmos
- World Cups Won: 1958, 1962, 1970
- Career Goals: 1,283 (official)
Pelé’s Early Life
Pelé grew up in a poor family in Brazil. His father was also a footballer, which inspired him. As a child, he played with a sock stuffed with newspapers because he couldn’t afford a real ball.
At 15, he joined Santos FC, and by 16, he was playing for Brazil’s national team!
Pelé’s Football Career
1. Santos FC (1956–1974)
- Pelé spent 18 years at Santos, making them one of the best clubs in the world.
- Won 2 Copa Libertadores (South America’s Champions League).
- Scored 643 goals for Santos in 659 games.
2. New York Cosmos (1975–1977)
- Pelé helped popularize football (soccer) in the USA.
- Played alongside legends like Franz Beckenbauer.
- Won the NASL (North American Soccer League) in 1977.
3. Brazil National Team (1957–1971)
- Youngest World Cup winner (17 years old in 1958).
- Only player to win 3 World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970).
- Scored 77 goals in 92 games for Brazil.
Pelé’s World Cup Legacy
⚽ 1958 World Cup (Sweden)
- Pelé (17 years old) became a superstar.
- Scored 6 goals, including 2 in the final against Sweden.
- Brazil won 5-2 – their first World Cup!
⚽ 1962 World Cup (Chile)
- Pelé got injured early, but Brazil still won.
- Garrincha became the star of the tournament.
⚽ 1970 World Cup (Mexico)
- Considered the greatest team ever (Brazil’s 1970 squad).
- Pelé scored 4 goals, including 1 in the final vs Italy.
- Brazil won 4-1, keeping the Jules Rimet Trophy forever.
Pelé’s Records & Achievements
✅ Most World Cup wins (3) – A record still unmatched.
✅ Over 1,000 career goals – FIFA recognizes 1,283 goals.
✅ Youngest World Cup winner (17 in 1958).
✅ FIFA Player of the Century (2000) – Shared with Maradona.
✅ Scored in 4 different decades (1950s–1970s).
Pelé’s Playing Style
- Speed & Dribbling – Could beat defenders easily.
- Powerful Shot – Scored from long range.
- Creativity – Made assists like a playmaker.
- Heading Ability – Strong in the air despite being 5’8” (1.73m).
Pelé’s Life After Football
- Became a global ambassador for football.
- Served as Brazil’s Minister of Sports (1995–1998).
- Appeared in movies and commercials.
- Remained a beloved figure until his death in 2022.
Why is Pelé the Greatest of All Time (GOAT)?
🔥 3 World Cups – No one else has done this.
🔥 1,000+ Goals – A record that may never be broken.
🔥 Changed Football Forever – Made Brazil a football superpower.
🔥 Global Icon – Even non-football fans know his name.
Famous Quotes About Pelé
- “Pelé is the greatest player in football history.” – Diego Maradona
- “Before Pelé, football was just a sport. After Pelé, it became an art.” – Franz Beckenbauer
- “I told myself before the game, ‘He’s made of skin and bones just like everyone else.’ But I was wrong.” – A Swedish defender (1958 World Cup)
Conclusion: Pelé’s Legacy
Pelé was more than a footballer – he was a legend, an artist, and a global hero. His records, skills, and charisma made him the King of Football. Even today, no player has matched his World Cup success and impact on the game.
Did Pelé Deserve to Be Called the Greatest?
Absolutely! 🏆⚽