Brazil Football Honors Legends Pele and Zagallo Ahead of World Cup 2026

As Brazil gears up for their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Morocco, the team pays tribute to two of its greatest legends, Pele and Mario Zagallo. This tournament marks the first World Cup since their passing, and the Brazil football account encourages fans to believe in their quest for a sixth star. Pele's unmatched legacy includes three World Cup victories, while Zagallo's unique record spans playing, managing, and coordinating roles in four World Cups. Discover more about their remarkable contributions to football.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 14, 2026, 01:09 IST

Tribute to Football Icons

Ahead of their opening match against Morocco in the FIFA World Cup 2026, Brazil's football team paid homage to two of its greatest legends, Pele and Mario Zagallo. This tournament is particularly significant as it is the first World Cup following the passing of both icons—Pele in December 2022 and Zagallo in January 2024.

The official Brazil football account emphasized the importance of this moment, urging fans and players alike to 'believe' in their quest for a record sixth star on their jerseys, honoring the legacy of the legends who donned the iconic yellow kit during Brazil's golden era.

A Message of Hope

"Today marks the beginning of another World Cup. The first without Pele and Zagallo. Yet, every time the yellow-and-green team steps onto the field, their spirits accompany them. And remember, today is the 13th. So let's believe and strive for the sixth star. For Brazil. For them," the Brazil football account shared on social media.

Pele's World Cup Achievements

Pele's legacy in the FIFA World Cup is unparalleled, having won the tournament three times—in 1958, 1962, and 1970. He holds the record for the most World Cup victories by an individual player. In the 1958 final against Sweden, he scored two goals, contributing to Brazil's 5-2 victory and finishing the tournament with six goals, second only to France's Just Fontaine.

In the 1962 World Cup, although he scored just once, Brazil secured back-to-back titles by defeating Czechoslovakia 3-1. Pele also netted the opening goal in the 1970 final, leading Brazil to a 4-1 triumph over Italy, finishing that tournament with four goals. He passed away at the age of 82 after battling cancer.

Zagallo's Remarkable Journey

Mario Zagallo's achievements are equally impressive. He won the FIFA World Cup as a player in 1958 and 1962, as a manager in 1970, and as a coordinator in 1994. Zagallo scored his only goal in the 1958 final and added another in the 1962 tournament. He passed away in January 2024 at the age of 92, being the last surviving member of the 1958 championship team.