Topend Sports Logo

Pelé: Football (Soccer)

Pelé was born as Edson Arantes do Nascimento on October 23, 1940. Pelé was a member of three Brazilian World Cup champion teams and is widely regarded by many to be the greatest soccer player of all time. He played a major role in every game he played. Pele died 29 December 2022.

Pele at the 1958 World CupPele at the 1958 World Cup

During his youth, he joined the Bauru Athletic Club juniors coached by Waldemar de Brito leading the team three consecutive victories from 1954 – 1956. Football star Brito took him to Santos football club and soon signed a professional contract in June 1956. His first international game was in July 1957 against Argentina.

Greatest Sporting Achievements

Pelé scored a total of 77 goals and appeared in 92 matches for the Brazil national team. In 1999, he was voted Football Player of the Century by the IFFHS. He created numerous records that some, until today, remain undefeated and unaltered. In 1962, he led Santos to victory in four competitions, becoming the first team to win four times.

Why Was He So Good?

Pelé had a talent for scoring stupendous goals which made him a world-renowned footballer. He ruled soccer during his active years to the point where people even called him “King of Football”. He gave his all to each match and play like it’s his first professional game. Some football fanatics, experts, reviewers and former and present players, believe that he is still the best player of all time with thrilling play and remarkable performance.



What You May Not Know

Was he a legend?

Do you agree with Pelé being a legend of football / soccer?

How would you rate their greatness? (from good to 'the best')



Related Pages

send us a comment Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.

More Football

Football (some call it soccer) is the world's most popular sport. There are many major football tournaments, the pinnacle is the FIFA World Cup. See a calendar of what is coming up. There have been many legends of the game, particularly winners of the Ballon d'Or. For players, there are articles about Football Fitness and Fitness Testing.

Profiles Extra

There are profiles of past athlete champions from a large range of sports. See also profiles of Olympic athletes and pages about sporting heroes.

 → How to Cite