While Brazil secured a place in the quarter-finals of the World Cup against South Korea, the probably greatest national player in history watched the TV. Pelé kept his fingers crossed for the “Selecao”.
In the past few days, there have been worrying reports about Pele’s health. Now the football legend spoke up via Instagram and assured his Brazilian national team of his support from home.
Before the round of 16 against South Korea, the 82-year-old wrote that he knew that many of them wanted to win their first World Cup. “I want to inspire you, my friends. I’ll be following the game here from the hospital and I’ll be cheering on each and every one of you. We are on this path together” said Pelé, who became world champion with Brazil in 1958, 1962 and 1970.
Pelé contradicts media reports
The Brazilians want to win their sixth World Cup title at the tournament in Qatar. In the past few days, national coach Tite and many “Selecao” players had been worried about Pelé. The former exceptional footballer has been in the hospital in Sao Paulo for several days. The media reported that the chemotherapy was no longer working for him. Pelé himself then reported to Instagram and assured that he was strong and had hope.
Brazil’s players pay homage to Pelé after reaching the quarterfinals
The Brazilian team has that too. After the 4-1 win over South Korea, all the players unfurled a giant banner that read “PELÉ” and held it up. Next to it is a jubilant picture of the Brazilian idol. So he should be happy if possible after a final victory on December 18th.