Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known as Pelé, had one of the most admirable careers in the history of sport.
• Read also: “King” Pelé, the world's first soccer star, dies at 82
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The Brazilian transcended the world of soccer by becoming an icon recognizable to all, who unfortunately passed away on December 29, 2022. Here are some milestones in the career of the grand master of the round ball.
Arrival at Santos
It was in 1956, at the very young age of 15, that Pelé began his professional career. He quickly climbed the ladder to become a starter with his new team, he who had even scored in his first friendly duel on September 7. It was in this city in the state of Sao Paulo that he built his legend by scoring no less than 643 goals in 660 official matches for Santos.
The beginnings with Brazil
The talented striker made many eyes widen in his country, so much so that the coach of the "Seleçao" at that time, Sylvio Pirillo, made him play a first match on July 7, 1957. Of course, Pelé hit the target at the 32nd minute, being called up as a substitute during this duel against Argentina, as part of the Copa Roca. When he retired from international soccer, he had 77 successes on his record. This Brazilian record was only equaled at the 2022 World Cup, by Neymar.
The first World
Pelé put Brazil on the map in 1958 when he led them to their first World Cup victory. The tournament was held in Sweden, and the Brazilians defeated the local favorites in the final 5-2. The native of Tres Coraçoes, meanwhile, shook the ropes six times in four games.
Never two without three
The Brazilians won the World Cup again in 1962, but Pelé only played one full match at that tournament due to injury. After the disappointment of 1966, the "Seleçao" regained the title by beating Italy in the final four years later. The star of the team contributes effectively with a goal and an assist during this meeting.
Transfer to the United States
Pelé, Santos FC and even the Brazilian government insisted that the player stay in Brazil during his career, he who was considered "a treasure of the country". Several European clubs tried their luck, but each time came up against a closed door. It was on June 10, 1975 that he joined the New York Cosmos, he who had chosen retirement a year earlier. Having to liquidate large debts, Pelé got back on his feet by signing a three-year contract for $4.7 million.
A legendary last match
On October 1, 1977, at Giants Stadium, the soccer world was watching Pelé's last game. In front of 75,000 fans, the 37-year-old played half in a Cosmos uniform and the other in the colors of Santos. The career of the man who is considered by many to be the greatest soccer player of all time is celebrated by all, including another legend present that day, the boxer Mohamed Ali.
