Pelé is regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time. The Brazilian legend helped his national team win three World Cup titles and played a crucial role in its two other triumphs. Pelé’s contribution to Brazil’s success in football history can’t be undermined. Pelé led Brazil to its first World Cup win as an 18-year-old rising star in 1958. He scored six goals in the tournament, including a hat-trick in the semi-final match against France. Brazil defeated Sweden 5-2 in the final, and Pelé’s brilliant display earned him the tournament’s best player award.
Pelé then won the World Cup again in 1962, and this time he played an even more significant role. Pelé scored two goals in the final against Czechoslovakia, despite breaking a bone in his foot during the group stage. Brazil won 3-1, and Pelé was named the tournament’s best player for the second consecutive time.
After winning the World Cup in 1962, Pelé struggled with injuries, and Brazil failed to defend its title in 1966. However, he returned to grace the field for the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. It was arguably Brazil’s greatest side of all time, and Pelé played a crucial role in its triumph. With an incredibly talented team, including Jairzinho, Carlos Alberto, Rivelino, and Tostão, among others, Brazil put on an unforgettable display of football. Pelé scored four goals in the tournament, and Brazil won 4-1 in the final against Italy.
Pelé retired from international football after the 1970 World Cup, but Brazil still managed to win two more World Cups. In 1994, Romario and Bebeto led Brazil to victory in the United States. They didn’t produce the vintage Brazilian magic of the 1970s side, but they got the job done and won the tournament with a solid defensive display in the final against Italy, which culminated in a 0-0 draw and a victory on penalties.
Brazil’s fifth World Cup triumph came in 2002 when Ronaldo scored both goals in the final against Germany to give Brazil a 2-0 victory. Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, and Cafu were other key members of the team.
The legacy of Pelé and his teammates is immense. Not only did they showcase some of the most beautiful football ever played, but they also proved that Brazil is a footballing superpower. They paved the way for generations of Brazilian footballers, who have followed in their footsteps and continue to inspire millions of fans around the world. Brazil’s five World Cup victories are a testament to the country’s rich footballing heritage and the incredible players who have represented Brazil over the years.