SAFA president Danny Jordaan has penned an emotional tribute to Brazil legend Pelé following the three-time FIFA World Cup winner's passing on Thursday evening.
The family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pelé, confirmed on Thursday that the former Brazil football star, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, had died at the age of 82 following a lengthy battle with colon cancer.
News of his passing quickly reverberated around the world and South Africa Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan was among those who paid tribute to him and influence on the beautiful game.
"We are saddened by the passing of this icon," Jordaan said. He was a supporter of African progress in football and supported the FIFA World Cup in South Africa in 2010.
"Years ago he predicted that an African nation would win the FIFA World Cup before the year 2000 and while it is yet to happen, the performances of the African teams at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar must have put a smile on his face."
"He was here in South Africa during the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and supported us. We remember him not only as the greater footballer he was, but also as a great ambassador of the sport. We extend our deepest sympathies to his entire family, friends, Brazil and the football family around the globe. May Pele's soul rest in peace."
Pelé is widely reported to have scored over 1000 career goals during his career and remains Brazil's record goalscorer with 77 goals (shared with Neymar) to his name, having also won three FIFA world Cup trophies with the Seleção.
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