The Black Pearl fades away

Brazil’s three-time World-cup winning football legend, Pele passed away at the age of 82 following a cancer battle.

Considered by many to be the greatest footballer of all time, Pele was in poor health in recent months.

The three-time World Cup champion, whose actual name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, was dealing with kidney and heart issues.

In September 2021, Pele had a colon tumour removed.

However on November 29, he was checked into the Albert Einstein hospital in Sao Paulo.

Pele, widely regarded as the game’s most gifted player, guided Brazil to three World Cup victories in 1958, 1962, and 1970.

With 77 goals in 92 games, he continues to be the top goal scorer for Brazil, along with Neymar.

Daughter Kely Nascimento confirmed his passing with a social media post that said: ‘Everything we are is thanks to you. We love you infinitely. Rest in peace.’

There was a message to the three million followers on Pele’s official Twitter account, too: ‘Inspiration and love marked the journey of King Pele, who peacefully passed away today. Love, love and love, forever.’

Neymar, who also played for Santos released an emotional tribute.

‘Before Pele, 10 was just a number,’ he said. ‘I’ve read this phrase somewhere, at some point in my life, but this sentence, though beautiful, is incomplete.

‘I would say before Pele, football was just a sport. Pele changed it all. He turned football into art, into entertainment.

‘He gave a voice to the poor, to the blacks and especially gave visibility to Brazil. Soccer and Brazil have raised their status thanks to the King! He’s gone but his magic remains. Pele is forever. FOREVER!!’