Pele

Pele was a Brazilian soccer player. He was born Edson Arantes do Nascimento in Tres Coracoes, Brazil, in 1940. He scored over 1,000 goals in his career. He is often called the greatest soccer player who ever lived.

Early Life

Pele grew up very poor and practiced soccer with a stuffed sock because he could not afford a ball. He joined the professional team Santos at age 15. At 17, he helped Brazil win the World Cup. He was the youngest player to score in a World Cup final.

Big Achievements

Pele won three World Cups with Brazil, in 1958, 1962, and 1970. He scored 1,281 goals in 1,363 games. He was named FIFA's Player of the Century. He brought joy to millions of fans around the world with his incredible skill and sportsmanship.

Fun Facts

• Pele practiced with a stuffed sock as a child because he did not have a real soccer ball.
• He scored 1,281 career goals.
• A war in Nigeria was paused so both sides could watch him play.

Did You Know?

Pele was so popular that during a civil war in Nigeria, both sides agreed to a 48-hour ceasefire so everyone could watch him play in an exhibition match. Soccer truly brought people together through Pele.