Courtesy: Goal.com
Even if you were not born when Pelé last laced up a football boot in rage, you are familiar with his name. The greatest footballer of all time may have been retired for 40 years, but his exploits are still remembered today.
Everyone has seen the objectives. We’ve seen the black-and-white footage of a teenager tearing apart the world’s best defenders. We’ve also seen blurry technicolor footage of a player at the pinnacle of his powers, leading one of the greatest football teams of all time to another World Cup victory.
Here are five fascinating facts about the Black Diamond of world football that you might not have known otherwise:
- 8 Goals in One Game
Pele scored 8 of his team’s 11 goals while playing for Santos against another Brazilian team, Botafogo. The final score was 11-0, indicating that the game was a complete rout. This is an incredible accomplishment for any player, regardless of skill level. It is unusual for a single player to have multiple chances to shoot on goal in a single game, let alone score.
2. He scored four goals on his debut
Pelé joined Santos at the age of 15 and scored four goals on his debut against FC Corinthians. That’s one way to show gratitude for the scout’s trust.
3. He was married 3 Times
Pele was married three times and was said to have had numerous affairs. As a result, Pele has a large family. Though the exact number has not been proven biologically, it is thought to be at least seven. Pele married his 41-year-old partner Marcia Aoki in 2016 at the age of 73.
4. He was declared a national treasure by the Brazilian government in 1961
In 1961, the Brazilian government declared him a national hero in order to prevent foreign football clubs from taking him away from the country.
5. 19 November is Pelé Day
In Santos, November 19th is designated as “Pele Day.” This day commemorates the day in 1969 when he scored his 1000th goal. This goal was scored from a penalty kick and was widely anticipated throughout Brazil. Following that achievement, the day was dubbed Pele Day and has since been celebrated in Santos.
After all, shouldn’t every legend have his or her own day?
While Pele was arguably the greatest player of all time, these facts show that he was so much more. Pele was the recipient of numerous awards, a player who rose from obscurity, and a human being who was highly regarded by those who knew him.
It is clear that Pele has left a legacy that will not be forgotten.