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      Brazil pays tribute to hero Pele as Christ the Redeemer illuminated in green & 3 days mourning announced by president

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      BRAZIL’S Christ the Redeemer statue was illuminated in green and yellow last night as the nation mourns the death of Pele.Three days of mourning have been announced by President Jair Bolsonaro after the football legend’s death yesterday.
      The Christ the Redeemer statue has been lit up in the colours of the Brazilian national flag in Pele’s honourCredit: AP
      A man was seen breaking down in tears in front of the Albert Einstein Hospital where Pele diedCredit: EPA
      Brazilian soccer fan Marcio Da Silva pays tribute to Pele in front of the Maracana stadiumCredit: EPA
      A fan of soccer star Pele was seen breaking down in tears after learning about his deathCredit: AP
      Grieving fans were seen reacting to news that the greatest player in history had died.
      He passed away due to multiple organ failure as a result of colon cancer, it emerged last night.
      He had been receiving treatment for a tumour in his colon but stopped responding to care.

      KING OF FOOTBALL PELE DIES AGED 82 
      Pele tributes live blog – world of football paying respects to footballing icon
      READ MORE ON PELE
      Brazil legend Pele, probably the greatest footballer of all time, passes away after cancer battle
      Pele’s daughter shares heartbreaking final photo of football legend in hospital bed
      Pele has three World Cup winner’s medals – no footballer can match that
      Football world pays tribute to icon Pele after World Cup hero’s death aged 82
      Most read in Football
      Pele leaves his third wife Marcia Aoki and six children.
      As Brazil grieves, the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro was lit up with the colours of the Brazilian flag in tribute to Pelé.
      Devastated fans have been seen breaking down in public as they process the death.
      A man was seen breaking down in tears outside Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo where Pele passed away.
      Fan Marcio Da Silva paid tribute to his hero by laying a Brazilian flag in front of the Maracana stadium, in Rio de Janeiro.
      Back in the UK, Wembley Stadium’s arch has been lit up in the colours of Brazil.
      Brazilian media say that Pele’s wake will be held on Monday at Vila Belmiro stadium in Santos, after Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is inaugurated as Brazil’s 39th president on Sunday.
      Pele will then be laid to rest at 10am on Tues after a procession.
      The planning of his funeral is being compared to that of the Queen’s ‘Operation London Bridge’.
      Meanwhile, Pele’s daughter has shared the poignant final photo taken of the star player after he died.
      She wrote: “Everything we are is thanks to you we love you infinitely. Rest in peace.”
      Pele’s fans were seen hanging a banner reading ‘Eternal King Pele’ outside his hospitalCredit: AFP
      Fans of Brazilian football legend Pele embrace outside the hospitalCredit: AFP
      In the UK, Wembley Stadium’s arch has been lit up in the colours of Brazil with Pele’s name in bright lightsCredit: PA
      The screen announced the death of Pele before the Sky Bet Championship match at The Hawthorns, West BromwichCredit: PA
      Mourners all around the world are sharing their favourite memories of the football legend.
      Pele, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, won three World Cups with Brazil between 1958 and 1970, the only player in football history to achieve the feat.
      World leaders, sporting greats and celebrities have flocked to social media to join fans who are sharing their condolences.
      President Biden took to Twitter to say: “For a sport that brings the world together like no other, Pelé’s rise from humble beginnings to soccer legend is a story of what is possible.  
      “Today, Jill and I’s thoughts are with his family and all those who loved him.”
      Former president Bill Clinton shared: “Pelé was not only a football legend but also a humanitarian and global icon.
      “He used his platform to empower disenfranchised children and inspire generations around the world. We give thanks for his life and legacy.”
      Gary Lineker said: “Pele has died. The most divine of footballers and joyous of men. He played a game only a few chosen ones have come close to.
      “3 times he lifted the most coveted gold trophy in that beautiful yellow shirt. He may have left us but he’ll always have footballing immortality. RIP Pele.”
      England World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst tweeted: “I have so many memories of Pele, without doubt the best footballer I ever played against (with Bobby Moore being the best footballer I ever played alongside).
      “For me Pele remains the greatest of all time and I was proud to be on the the pitch with him. RIP Pele and thank you.”
      World Cup finalist, and winner in 2018, Kylian Mbappe said: “The king of football has left us but his legacy will never be forgotten. RIP King.”
      Olympic sprint legend Usain Bolt tweeted: “A sporting legend. Rest in Peace King Pele.”
      Brazil’s current golden boy Neymar wrote: “Before Pele, 10 was just a number. I’ve read this phrase somewhere, at some point in my life.
      “But this sentence, beautiful, is incomplete. I would say before Pele football was just a sport. Pele has changed it all. He turned football into art, into entertainment.
      “He gave voice to the poor, to the blacks and especially: He 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!!”
      Cristiano Ronaldo put on social media: “My deep condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento.
      “A mere ‘goodbye’ to the eternal King Pele will never be enough to express the pain that the entire football world is currently embracing.
      “An inspiration to so many millions, a reference yesterday, today and forever. The love you always showed me was reciprocated in every moment we shared even from distance.
      “He will never be forgotten and his memory will live forever in each and every one of us football lovers. Rest in peace King Pele.”

      Lionel Messi’s post was short but sweet, reading: “Rest in peace Pele.”
      Pele’s official Twitter account said: “Inspiration and love marked the journey of King Pele, who peacefully passed away today. Love, love and love, forever.”
      A fan of Brazilian football legend Pele shows a magazine with pictures of the football starCredit: AFP
      Pele’s daughter shared a heartbreaking photo of his family all togetherCredit: Instagram
      Pele’s wake will be held on Monday at Vila Belmiro stadium in SantosCredit: AFP
      Pele will then be laid to rest at 10am on Tues after a processionCredit: AFP More

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      How Brazil legend Pele, the most divine of footballers, learned to play with a sock stuffed with paper

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      IN brilliant, Brazilian yellow on new-fangled colour TV sets, Pele appeared to have descended from footballing heaven.It was the 1970 World Cup and with balletic poise, devastating pace and clinical skill he defined what the Beautiful Game could be.
      Pele, who has died aged 82, will be remembered for Brazil’s triumph at the 1970 World CupCredit: Getty
      Pele ended up winning a total of three World Cup trophiesCredit: Instagram
      Pele learned to play football with a sock stuffed with newspaper after being born into poverty (pictured aged 17)Credit: Avalon.red
      For Pelé, it was never enough just to win, he had to entertain too.
      It’s all there on YouTube – the mazy dribbles, the cannonball shots and that elegant dummy sold to Uruguay’s keeper.
      He learned to play football with a sock stuffed with newspaper after being born into poverty
      Aged 17, he then became a global superstar after helping Brazil lift its first World Cup in 1958.
      read more on pele
      Now – in the searing heat of Mexico 1970 – Pele was in his pomp, playing for a team regarded by many as the greatest ever.
      Brazil’s second match saw them face holders England, with temperatures nudging 37C in Guadalajara.
      On ten minutes, Jairzinho crossed for Pelé whose powerful downward header was miraculously palmed away by Gordon Banks.
      The greatest-ever player thwarted by the greatest-ever save.
      Most read in Football
      Pele would later reflect: “I have scored more than a thousand goals in my life and the thing people always talk to me about is the one I didn’t score.”
      Brazil won 1-0 despite an imperious defensive display by Bobby Moore, including an epic tackle on Jairzinho in the box.
      Brazil manager Mário Zagallo said: “The England match was our toughest test. That was the real final.”
      At the final whistle, Pele and Moore embraced like two battered prize fighters and swapped shirts.
      Pelé would later say: “He was my friend as well as the greatest defender I ever played against.
      In the final Brazil hammered Italy 4-1. Tarcisio Burgnich, who marked Pele, recalled: “I told myself before the game, ‘He’s made of skin and bones just like everyone else’.
      “But I was wrong.”
      Pele opened the scoring with a sublime header and his unforgettable killer pass to a rampaging Alberto capped off the victory.
      Alberto would later say: “Playing with Pele felt like you had God on your side.”
      He was born Edson Arantes do Nascimento – in subtropical Três Corações in 1940.
      A young Pele playing for Santos FC where he scored on his debut aged 15 in 1956Credit: Avalon.red
      Pele scoring in the 1970 World Cup FinalCredit: Rex
      He was named after US inventor Thomas Edison because his town had just been connected to the electricity mains.
      The eldest of three children, his father João Ramos do Nascimento, was a footballer whose career was cut short by injury, plunging the family into poverty.
      He later recalled the “constant anxiety” of where his next meal would come from.
      Pele wrote: “That fear, once it enters your bones, it’s like a chill that never leaves you.”
      He played football in the street with a sock stuffed with newspaper or a watermelon.
      Later his father would teach him how to use both feet and to head properly.
      Like all Brazilian footballers, there had to be a nickname.
      As a child, his favourite player was goalkeeper Bilé who he mispronounced as Pele. It stuck.
      Scouted by giants Santos FC, he scored on his debut aged 15 in 1956.
      The following year he was called up for the national team – scoring in a 2–1 loss to Argentina
      In 1958 Pele inspired Brazil to World Cup glory in Sweden with six goals. Some locals had never met a black man.
      He recalled: “This Swedish girl kept rubbing my skin to see if it’d come off.”
      In the 1962 World Cup he scored in the opening game but later limped out of the tournament, which Brazil won.
      Four years later in England he was fouled repeatedly and got injured again.
      A year after the 1970 triumph he retired from internationals as the original GOAT, greatest of all time.
      He would win six league titles with Santos plus two Copa Libertadores – the equivalent of the Champions League.
      In 1975 he joined New York Cosmos before hanging up his boots two years later.
      Mick Jagger said: “Everybody wanted to shake his hand, to get a photo with him.
      “Saying you had partied with Pele was the biggest badge of honour going.”
      His personal life was complicated.
      Pele said he was “too young” when he married Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi in 1966.
      The couple had daughters, Kelly and Jennifer, and son Edinho, before divorce in 1982.
      The legend celebrates Brazil’s 1970 World Cup winCredit: Getty
      The ace lifts the World Cup trophy in 1970Credit: Alamy
      The last picture of Pele as he hugs daughter Kelly Nascimento on his hospital bedCredit: https://www.instagram.com/iamkelynascimento/
      In total, he has seven known offspring, including Sandra Machado who he refused to acknowledge.
      Sandra, who died from ­cancer in 2006, was the result of a romance with housemaid Anisia Machado.
      An affair in 1968 with journalist Lenita Kurtz produced daughter Flavia, 52.
      In 1994 he married psychologist Assíria Lemos Seixas, who gave birth to twins Joshua and Celeste in 1996. The couple divorced in 2008.
      Then in 2016, aged 75, he married “definitive love” businesswoman Marcia Cibele Aoki, 50.
      After he quit playing, Pele became a UNESCO Ambassador and later Brazilian Sports Minister and also earned a fortune through ad deals – including Viagra.
      He had long been dogged by health ­problems and last year had surgery to remove a tumour from his colon.

      But he was immortalised in canvas by pop artist Andy Warhol, who said “Pele was one of the few who contradicted my theory.
      “Instead of 15 minutes of fame, he will have 15 centuries.”
      Pele in hospital with daughter Kelly
      Pele hugs fellow sporting legend Muhammad AliCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Pele and Argentina legend MaradonaCredit: Splash
      Pele and Portugal’s Cristiano RonaldoCredit: Instagram More

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      Pele dead latest updates: Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Neymar lead tributes as football legend dies from cancer

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      PELE has passed away aged 82.The world of football is in mourning with tributes flooding in after it was announced the Brazil icon had died in his homeland.
      Nicknamed The King, Pele won three World Cups with Brazil between 1958 and 1970, the only player in football history to achieve the feat.
      His amazing haul of 1,279 goals in 1,363 games, which included friendlies, is recognised as a Guinness World Record.

      Follow ALL of the latest tributes below…
      David Beckham tribute
      David Beckham has paid his respects to Pele.
      Becks wrote alongside a picture of the pair: “It was HIS beautiful game obrigado.”

      In A League of His Own
      Pele’s staggering goal numbers paint a picture into of his greatness.
      While his amount of strikes are disputed by some, he is credited with a world record 1,281 in 1,363 appearances during a 21 year career.
      He also scored 77 goals in 92 games for Brazil.
      What is not disputed are his extraordinary three World Cup wins in 1958, 1962 and 1970, the only player to achieve this.
      The iconic player was a key part of all three victorious teams and often left opponent befuddled with his movement, skill, ball control and fantastic showmanship
      Ronaldo tribute
      Cristiano Ronaldo wrote: “My deepest condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Mr. Edson Arantes do Nascimento.
      “An inspiration for so many millions, a reference yesterday, today and forever.
      “The love you always showed me was reciprocated in every moment we shared even from distance.
      “He will never be forgotten and his memory will live on forever in each of us football lovers. Rest in peace, King Pele.”
      Credit: Instagram
      Messi paying respect
      Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo both paid their own emotional tributes on hearing the news that Pele had died.
      Argentina’s World Cup winner Lionel Messi posted a picture on Instagram of him with Pele with the message: “Rest in peace, @pele.
      Credit: Instagram
      ‘Eternal Legacy’
      Arsenal and Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus has hailed “king” Pele after his death tonight.
      The forward posted this earlier on Twitter.
      Jesus paid tribute to Pele on Twitter earlier
      Pele Funeral ‘comparable to the Queen’
      Pele’s wake is set to take place on Monday in Santos, according to reports.
      And the Guardian’s Latin American correspondent Tom Phillips reports that the local press are comparing his funeral to the Queen’s passing.
      He tweeted: “Brazilian media reporting that Pelé’s wake will be held on Monday at Vila Belmiro stadium in city of Santos, after Lula’s inauguration on Sunday.
      “Pelé will be laid to rest at 10am on Tues after a procession. Press comparing funeral planning to Queen’s ‘Operation London Bridge'”.
      Wembley lit up
      The iconic Wembley arch has been lit up in Brazilian colours to mark the passing of Pele.
      Wembley Stadium’s arch is lit up in the colours of Brazil after it was announced that the former Brazilian footballer Pele had died aged 82
      ‘Football will always belong to you’
      German football legend Franz Beckenbauer has joined tributes to Pele.
      The former defender said: “Today, football lost the greatest man in its history – and I lost a unique friend. Born in Tres Coracoes, Pelé had three hearts: for football, for his family and for all people. Someone who played with the stars and always stayed down to earth.
      “I went to the US in 1977 because I really wanted to play on a team with Pelé at New York Cosmos. This time at his side was one of the greatest experiences of my career. We became champions together right away, and Pelé then just called me his brother.
      “It was an unimaginable honour for me. Football will always belong to you! You will always be here. Thank you for your game, O Rei!”
      ‘He made everything look so easy’
      Manchester United legend Denis Law has hailed the skill and talent of Pele.
      Law said: “Pele was an ­unbelievable footballer; he had style, grace, flair and made everything look so easy. The precision in the way he played made him such a joy to watch… more than anything he was a good man with a great ­presence and a fantastic smile.”
      Tributes continue to pour in for Brazilian legend Pele
      Pele’s Obituary
      The boy who grew up sleeping on a mattress around the kitchen fire, dodging the rain dripping through the roof, was to become arguably the most famous man on the planet, rivalled only by Muhammad Ali.
      A man who met with kings, queens, presidents and Popes. Whose mere presence brought about a two-day ceasefire in the Nigerian civil war. And whose dismissal in a match provoked a riot that saw the authorities rescind the sending off to save the referee from a lynching.
      Not to mention those mere 1,281 goals in 1,363 games. Most important, though, was what he brought to the fans.
      The joy of the game. The artistry and beauty of his skill. The ultimate glories.
      Read SunSport’s full obituary on Pele’s extraordinary life here.
      ‘Wonderful human being’
      Manchester United and England legend Bobby Charlton has become the latest to mark the death of Pele.
      Charlton, who was a footballing contemporary of the Brazilian great, said: “Pele was a truly magical footballer and a wonderful human being. It was an honour to have shared a pitch with him and I send my sincerest condolences to his family, friends and the Brazilian people.”
      New York Cosmos Tribute
      Pele only played for two clubs during his entire career – Santos for almost 20 years and a two year stint at New York Cosmos.
      He may have only spent two years in America, but New York Cosmos put his impact into perspective with their tribute.
      The club said tonight: “In 1975, Pelé joined the New York Cosmos and helped popularize soccer across the United States.
      “During three seasons with the Cosmos, Pelé helped transform the domestic landscape of the sport of soccer.  The Cosmos and their King not only started a sporting revolution in America, they also traveled the world to spread the Gospel of the Beautiful Game.
      “Pelé’s name will forever be synonymous with sporting artistry and genius. His lasting impact on the sport of soccer is inestimable.”
      Picture Perfect
      There are many brilliant photos of the King of Football Pele but perhaps none more so than the one snapped in 1970.
      Having just led Brazil to a World Cup for the third time, the shirtless Pele is lifted onto the shoulders of fans and teammates and hoisted into the air.
      Smiling widely and right arm held aloft, Pele looks at his happiest.
      Brazil beat Italy 4-1 in the 1970 World Cup Final to spark scenes of joy
      Brazil pays tribute
      Pele was legendary around the world but particularly in his homeland of Brazil where millions will now be mourning.
      The Brazilian government have tweeted: “Football perfection; the King was almost synonymous with his homeland. Generations to come will remember him as a gentleman off the field, and a magician on it.”
      Meanwhile, Brazil’s incoming president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said: “Few Brazilians carried our country’s name so far.
      “However different their language was to Portuguese, foreigners from all over the planet always found a way of pronouncing the magic word: ‘Pelé’”
      From One Great to Another
      Lionel Messi has become the latest footballer to mark the passing of Pele.
      Messi wrote on Instagram: “Rest in peace” and share pictures of the two of them together.
      Messi and Pele are widely regarded as two of the best players of all time and dominated their respective eras of football.
      Messi’s paid tribute to Pele on Instagram
      The Football Community Mourns
      The death of Pele tonight comes only two years after the passing of Diego Maradona.
      The pair were widely regarded as the two greatest players in football before the emergence of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
      While both were brilliant at club level, they vaulted themselves into legend with performances at World Cups, namely 1958 and 1970 for Pele and 1986 for Maradona.
      When the Argentine died in 2020, Pele tweeted: “One day, I hope we can play football together in the sky.”
      ‘Your words will never leave me’
      Jack Wilshere is among the football stars hailing Pele’s greatness tonight.
      This was his wonderful tribute on Twitter earlier tonight.

      Neymar on his hero
      Neymar has taken to Instagram to pay an emotional and powerful tribute to Pele.
      The star, who wears no.10 for Brazil and equalised Pele’s scoring record for Brazil at the World Cup, hailed the “King” on social media.
      Neymar said: “Before Pelé, “10” was just a number. I’ve read this phrase somewhere, at some point in my life. But this sentence, beautiful, is incomplete.
      “I would say before Pelé football was just a sport. Pelé has changed it all. He turned football into art, into entertainment He gave voice to the poor, to the blacks and especially: He gave visibility to Brazil.
      “Soccer and Brazil have raised their status thanks to the King! He’s gone but his magic remains. Pelé is FOREVER!!”
      A League of His Own
      Pele’s staggering goal numbers paint a picture into of his greatness.
      While his amount of strikes are disputed by some, he is credited with a world record 1,281 in 1,363 appearances during a 21 year career.
      He also scored 77 goals in 92 games for Brazil.
      What is not disputed are his extraordinary three World Cup wins in 1958, 1962 and 1970, the only player to achieve this.
      The iconic player was a key part of all three victorious teams and often left opponent befuddled with his movement, skill, ball control and fantastic showmanship.
      Ronaldo pays tribute
      Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to the Brazilian great Pele.
      He said on Instagram: “A mere “goodbye” to the eternal King Pelé will never be enough to express the pain that the entire football world is currently embracing.
      “An inspiration to so many millions, a reference yesterday, today and forever. The love you always showed me was reciprocated in every moment we shared even from distance.
      “He will never be forgotten and his memory will live forever in each and every one of us football lovers. Rest in peace King Pelé.”
      Cristiano Ronaldo paid a moving tribute to Pele on Instagram
      Manchester United pay tribute
      Man United have tweeted this tribute this evening following the sad news that Pele has died.
      One of football’s greatest clubs paid tribute to one of football’s greatest player
      ‘Heaven FC’
      Mesut Özil has shared a touching tribute to Pele after the Brazilian’s death at the age of 82.
      The midfielder made reference to Diego Maradona, another legend of football, who passed away in 2020 aged 60.
      The former Arsenal star tweeted: “Rest in peace to one of the greatest legends of the game. Your legacy will live forever.
      “I’m sure ‘Heaven FC’ with Maradona and Pele together will be invincible forever.”
      Rest in Peace
      Gary Neville is among the many footballers paying tribute to Pele.
      He has tweeted tonight: “rest in peace the legend Pele. What a smile.”
      The right-back also shared a picture of them together.
      Gary Neville shared this heartwarming photo of himself and Pele on Twitter
      Wembley Stadium Tribute
      The iconic Wembley arch will be lit up in the colours of the Brazilian flag tonight in a tribute to Pele.
      One of the finest players to have ever graced the game, Pele is one of football’s legends and is the only player to win three World Cups.
      He has today passed away at the age of 82.
      ‘A Sporting Legend’
      Usain Bolt has hailed “sporting legend” Pele after his death at the age of 82.
      The Olympic legend shared a picture of himself with the Brazilian on social media.
      100m king Usain Bolt shared this picture with Pele
      Load more entries… More

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      How Man Utd plotted sensational Pele transfer but Brazil icon stayed loyal to his beloved Santos during playing days

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      PELE turned down the opportunity to play for Manchester United during his glory years because he was loyal to Santos.The legendary striker, who sadly died on Thursday aged 82, spent almost his entire career with the Brazilian giants.
      Manchester United tried to sign Pele in 1968 during his glory yearsCredit: Rex
      Pele turned down Manchester United because he was loyal to SantosCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      But his incredible performances in his homeland as well, as in the World Cup with Brazil, saw the likes of Real Madrid and AC Milan trying to sign him.
      United also attempted to land the man dubbed the greatest footballer of all time in 1968.
      The Red Devils wanted the three-time World Cup winner to join Sir Matt Busby’s squad and form a stunning frontline with Sir Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and George Best.
      However, the Brazilian hero ultimately decided to stay put at his boyhood club Santos where he spent 18 years.
      Read More on Pele
      Pele said in 2015: “I was invited to come to Europe many times, to come to Real Madrid, Milan, Manchester United but I was OK.
      “Santos was the best team at that time. But today it’s different. Because in my time we didn’t have an agent.
      “These days it is not the player, it is the agent who decides where they go to play.
      KING OF FOOTBALL PELE DIES AGED 82 
      Pele tributes live blog – world of football paying respects to footballing icon
      Brazil legend Pele, probably the greatest footballer of all time, passes away after cancer battle
      Pele’s daughter shares heartbreaking final photo of football legend in hospital bed
      Pele has three World Cup winner’s medals – no footballer can match that
      Football world pays tribute to icon Pele after World Cup hero’s death aged 82

      “A lot of players they play one or another team because the agent tells them.”
      Most read in Football
      Pele never played in Europe as he joined American outfit New York Cosmos in 1975, just a year after he left Santos.
      The football trailblazer stayed in the US until 1977 when he retired from the sport. More

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      ‘He turned football into art’ – Footballing world pays tribute to Brazil icon Pele after World Cup hero’s death aged 82

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      NEYMAR led the tributes to ‘king’ Pele and declared: “He turned football into art.”Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known across the globe as Pele, passed away in his homeland on Thursday at the age of 82 after a battle with cancer.
      Tributes have flooded after news of Pele’s death broke around the worldCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Lionel Messi was among the football stars that paid tribute to Pele
      The Brazil great – regarded by many as the greatest football of all time – had been receiving treatment for a tumour in his colon but stopped responding to care.
      And football stars and legends took to social media to pay their respects to the Santos icon and reached out to his family.
      Current Brazil superstar Neymar wrote: “Before Pele, 10 was just a number. I’ve read this phrase somewhere, at some point in my life.
      “But this sentence, beautiful, is incomplete. I would say before Pele football was just a sport. Pele has changed it all. He turned football into art, into entertainment.
      Read More on Football
      “He gave voice to the poor, to the black community and especially: He gave visibility to Brazil.
      “Football and Brazil have raised their status thanks to the King! He’s gone but his magic remains. Pele is FOREVER!!”
      England legend Gary Lineker tweeted: “Pele has died. The most divine of footballers and joyous of men.
      “He played a game only a few chosen ones have come close to. 3 times he lifted the most coveted gold trophy in that beautiful yellow shirt.
      Most read in Football
      “He may have left us but he’ll always have footballing immortality. RIP Pele.”
      KING OF FOOTBALL PELE DIES AGED 82 
      Pele tributes live blog – world of football paying respects to footballing icon
      Brazil legend Pele, probably the greatest footballer of all time, passes away after cancer battle
      Pele’s daughter shares heartbreaking final photo of football legend in hospital bed
      Pele has three World Cup winner’s medals – no footballer can match that
      Football world pays tribute to icon Pele after World Cup hero’s death aged 82

      Lionel Messi – whose own recent World Cup win with Argentina has seen him join Pele in the upper echelons of the game’s all-time list – said: “Rest in peace.”
      While Manchester United and Real Madrid great Cristiano Ronaldo posted: “My deep condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento.
      “A mere “goodbye” to the eternal King Pele will never be enough to express the pain that the entire football world is currently embracing.
      “An inspiration to so many millions, a reference yesterday, today and forever. The love you always showed me was reciprocated in every moment we shared even from distance.
      Manchester United legend Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute to Pele on social mediaCredit: Instagram
      Wayne Rooney also paid tribute to Pele with this photoCredit: Instagram
      Brazil superstar Neymar sang Pele’s praises with a touching postCredit: Instagram: Neymar Jr
      “He will never be forgotten and his memory will live forever in each and every one of us football lovers. Rest in peace King Pele.”
      The official England Twitter account posted a picture of Pele exchanging shirts with Bobby Moore after their meeting at the 1970 World Cup in Mexico.
      “One of the greatest to have graced the beautiful game,” read the tweet. “Farewell, Pele. You will never be forgotten.”
      And England’s 1966 here Sir Geoff Hurst tweeted: “I have so many memories of Pele, without doubt the best footballer I ever played against (with Bobby Moore being the best footballer I ever played alongside).
      “For me Pele remains the greatest of all time and I was proud to be on the the pitch with him. RIP Pele and thank you.”
      The next generation of global striking superstars were also quick to post their tributes.
      Paris Saint-Germain and France star Kylian Mbappe said: “The king of football has left us but his legacy will never be forgotten. RIP KING.”
      While Manchester City strike sensation Erling Haaland wrote: “Everything you see any player doing, Pele did it first. RIP.”
      England and United record goalscorer Wayne Rooney wrote: “Rest in peace Pele. Legend.”
      United great Rio Ferdinand said: “The legend who stood tallest among legends… always had time for everyone!
      Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe paid his respects after Pele’s deathCredit: Instagram

      “I had the pleasure of playing for him (charity match) and interviewing him – equally rewarding. The player, The man, The icon.”
      Cafu posted: “He will never be forgotten.”
      Liverpool icon Ian Rush wrote: “A very sad day for football.
      “An icon and a true great of the game who touched millions around the world with his football and personality will be remembered forever.
      “Rest in peace, Pele. My thoughts are with his family.”
      I have so many memories of Pele, without doubt the best footballer I ever played against (with Bobby Moore being the best footballer I ever played alongside). For me Pele remains the greatest of all time and I was proud to be on the the pitch with him. RIP Pele and thank you. pic.twitter.com/oCpQlw7EIK— Sir Geoff Hurst (@TheGeoffHurst) December 29, 2022

      Fans from around the world also took to social media to express their condolences.
      This supporter tweeted: “One of the GOATs just died. RIP Pele.”

      Another fan posted: “The football world has lost a legend. Rest in peace Pele.”
      A third commented: “The original GOAT. A trailblazer. One of the finest players to ever lace up. He will be missed by millions.” More

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      in Soccer

      Pele’s daughter shares heartbreaking final photo of football star holding hands with family as he rested in hospital bed

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      PELE’S daughter has shared the poignant final photo taken of the Brazilian football star after he died at age 82.Devastated Kely Nasicmento told of her pain after losing her sporting legend dad.
      Football hero Pele has died aged 82Credit: Alamy
      Pele’s daughter paid tribute with this photoCredit: Instagram
      Kely Nasicmento pictured with her dad while he received treatment in hospitalCredit: Refer to Caption
      Pele had been receiving treatment for a tumour in his colon but stopped responding to care.
      It has now been confirmed that he has passed away.
      Tonight Kely posted a photo on Instagram showing her family holding Pele’s hand as he lay in a hospital bed.
      He had been in the Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital in Sao Paulo after being admitted at the end of November.
      MORE ON PELE
      She wrote: “Everything we are is thanks to you.
      “We love you infinitely. Rest in peace.”
      Kely, who had posted before Christmas that members of Pele’s family would spend the holiday period in the hospital with him, added three heartbroken emojis.
      Yesterday she shared an emotional post saying her family was enduring “sadness and despair”.
      Most read in Football
      She posted a picture with her sister Flavia and Pele’s grandchildren, Octavio Felinto Neto and Gabriel Arantes.
      Kely said: “These moments are hard to explain. Sometimes there is a lot of sadness and despair, other times we laugh and talk of fun memories.
      “And what we learn most from all this is that we have to look for each other, and hold tight. Only when it’s all worth it. With it all together.”
      On Boxing Day, Kely shared her praise for the hospital workers who were “doing all they can”.
      She said: “To see our dad being treated by these care professionals, super competent and extremely caring.
      “Not a moment goes by that we forget this privilege. Even in sadness we can only be thankful.”
      Nicknamed The King, Pele won three World Cups with Brazil between 1958 and 1970, the only player in football history to achieve the feat.
      His amazing haul of 1,279 goals in 1,363 games, which included friendlies, is recognised as a Guinness World Record.
      He scored a remarkable 77 goals in 92 games for the national team – a record equalled by Neymar at the recent World Cup.
      Pele burst onto the scene at an early age.
      Pele – all you need to know about Brazil iconPELE was widely regarded as the greatest footballer ever.
      Here is all the info you need on the soccer titan, who has passed away aged 82.

      He made his debut for his local team Santos aged just 15 and then won his first cap for the Brazil national team at 16. 
      He won the World Cup in 1958 aged just 17, and then won it again in 1962 and 1970.
      The South American superstar racked up 643 goals in 659 appearances for club side Santos across his 18-year spell.
      He also played for the New York Cosmos and retired in 1977, in an exhibition match between the Cosmos and Santos.
      In 1992, after his playing career, he was appointed a UN ambassador for ecology and the environment.
      Three years later, he was then named Brazil’s Extraordinary Minister for Sport by president Fernando Henrique Cardoso.

      He was the subject of a hit Netflix show charting his life from childhood poverty to the 1970 World Cup winner.
      Pele leaves his third wife Marcia Aoki and six children. More

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      in Motorsport

      Philippe Streiff dead at 67: Tributes paid to F1 icon who was left paralysed in horror pre-season testing accident

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      FORMULA ONE legend Philippe Streiff has died at the age of 67 bringing the world of motorsport to mourning.Streiff enjoyed a notable career as he won the French Formula 3 championship in 1981 before moving up to F1 three years later.
      Formula One legend Philippe Streiff has died at the age of 67Credit: Rex
      Philippe Streiff enjoyed a lot of success during his motorsport careerCredit: Getty
      Philippe Streiff also left a mark in the sport after his horror accidentCredit: AFP
      The former Tyrrell and AGS driver recorded one podium finish after finishing third at the 1985 Australian Grand Prix while competing for Equipe Ligier.
      But unfortunately the Frenchman’s career was cut short after a horrific car crash during pre-season testing in Brazil in 1989.
      The former Renault star was left paralysed from the neck down but he continued to stay close with the sport.
      Streiff organised the Masters Karting Paris Bercy competition, which saw F1 stars like Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel perform.
      Read More in F1
      The legendary driver was also key in promoting awareness of road safety and disabilities.
      Tributes poured following the news of his death with notable figures from F1 and other backgrounds paying their respects.
      Streiff’s former Tyrrell team-mate Martin Brundle tweeted: “Sad to hear this about my former teammate Philippe.
      “Lovely guy, and very stylish in and out of the car. I remember that day clearly when we were testing in Rio and he had his crash. The red flag followed by the medivac heli. Different days.”
      Most read in Motorsport
      F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali stated: “I am saddened to hear that Philippe Streiff has passed away. He showed incredible guts and determination throughout his life.
      “The way he overcame his accident and rebuilt his life was inspirational. We all send our condolences to his family at this sad time.”
      Author Richard Jenkins added: “His constant positive outlook on life despite great adversity is an inspiration to us all.
      “He was a huge help & great supporter of the upcoming Tyrrell book & will be missed by so many. He was much underrated driver too. RIP.” More

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      in Soccer

      Fabian O’Neill dead aged 49: Tributes paid to Uruguay icon who Zidane hailed as one of most talented he’d faced

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      FORMER Uruguay player Fabian O’Neill has died aged 49 following a battle with chronic liver disease. O’Neill was admitted to hospital on Saturday in a coma, after suffering a hemorrhage.
      Fabian O’Neill has died aged 49 following a battle with chronic liver diseaseCredit: AFP
      And his death was later confirmed by the Uruguayan FA in a statement.
      It read: “We regret with deep sadness and shock the death of the former player of the Uruguayan National Team, Fabián O’Neill.
      “Our condolences to your family and friends. RIP.”
      His ex-team Cagliari said: “Proud to have been able to admire your genius up close: pure, crystalline, like the most precious diamonds.
      “You made us fall in love with your class, Cagliari has never stopped loving its Wizard with the “10” on his shoulders.
      “Rest in peace Fabian. Forever one of us.”
      O’Neill started his career in Uruguay in 1992 with Nacional, winning the league in his first season.
      He went on to have later success in Italy, playing for Cagliari and Juventus.
      Most read in Football
      And former Juve team-mate Zinedine Zidane described him as “the most talented player I’ve ever seen” according to  France24.
      The midfielder made 19 international appearances with two goals and finished his playing career in 2003 back at Nacional at only 29.
      O’Neill leaves behind two daughters and a son, with his boy Favio a youth player in Uruguay.
      Fabian O”Neill playing for Cagliari in 1999Credit: Getty More