Hall Of Fame “Pelé,” the legendary all-time forward for Brazil's national football team and holder of the world record for most goals scored.
Pelé is not just a legend in Brazil but a symbol of world football. He transformed the game into an art form with his talent, creativity, and instinctive goal-scoring that was ahead of his era. From the age of just 17, he is remembered not only for his goals and trophies but for influencing football to become a sport loved globally. Follow his story in the Hall of Fame.
Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known as “Pelé,” was first called up to the national team at the 1958 World Cup at only 17 years old. This marked the rapid emergence of a legendary young star. Brazil had never won a World Cup before. Pelé started as a young player but quickly became a key figure, scoring 6 goals in 4 matches. His standout performance came in the 5-2 victory over France, where he scored a hat-trick, leading Brazil to their first World Cup final in 8 years.
In the final, Brazil faced the host nation Sweden. Pelé scored 2 goals, including a stunning volley after delicately chipping the ball over defenders, showcasing his skill. Brazil won 5-2 to claim their first-ever World Cup title, and Pelé rose to global stardom during that tournament.
At the 1962 World Cup, expectations were high after Pelé's previous success. He scored once against Mexico, but unfortunately suffered a torn thigh muscle in the second group match. This injury sidelined him for the rest of the tournament. Despite his absence, Brazil’s strength carried them to their second World Cup title, with key players like Garrincha, Vavá, and Amarildo stepping up in attack.
The 1966 World Cup was less memorable for Brazil and Pelé. He scored in the opening match, which was the only victory for the 'Samba Squad' in the tournament. Brazil lost their next two group matches against Hungary and Portugal by identical 3-1 scores. Pelé suffered a serious injury in the last group game following rough challenges, which hampered his play. Brazil exited early in the group stage, with Pelé scoring just one goal.
Four years later, at the 1970 World Cup, Pelé returned from disappointment to deliver his best performance. He led Brazil to win all three group matches and advanced through the knockout stages. A memorable moment was his classic feint to beat the goalkeeper against Uruguay, though it did not result in a goal. Brazil reached the final versus Italy and won 4-1, with Pelé scoring once and assisting another. He finished the tournament with 4 goals and 6 assists, helping Brazil win their third World Cup and earning the Golden Ball award later presented by FIFA.
At club level, Pelé shone most notably with Santos, playing from 1956 to 1974. He scored approximately 643 goals in 659 matches, winning 10 Brazilian league titles, 6 national championships, 2 Copa Libertadores trophies, and 2 Intercontinental Cups. His peak coincided with Santos being regarded as one of the best club teams worldwide, famed for their high-scoring attack domestically and internationally. After retiring, his legacy remained immense.
Pelé was honored by FIFA as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Although he passed away peacefully at 82 in 2022, his legend lives on. Guinness World Records recognizes him as the highest goal scorer worldwide, with 1,279 goals in 1,363 official matches throughout his career.