ATHLETES

Pele

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Brazilian football forward who won three FIFA World Cups and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the sport's history.

Background

Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento in Tres Coracoes, Brazil, Pele grew up in poverty and learned the game with improvised footballs in the streets before joining Santos at 15.

Career

He spent most of his career at Santos, winning the Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup. In 1975 he joined the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League, helping popularize football in the United States. He played his final match in 1977.

Style of play

A two-footed inside forward, Pele combined acceleration, dribbling, and finishing with both feet and his head. He was effective as both goalscorer and creator in tight spaces.

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