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Brazil dedicates its World Cup win against South Korea to Pele.
As Pele continues to receive medical care in a hospital, Brazil’s World Cup players paid respect to the legend of Pele.
Pele was brought to the hospital earlier this week when it was claimed that his colon cancer chemotherapy treatment was no longer working.
The Selecao brought a flag with Pele’s name and likeness onto the field after Brazil’s magnificent 4-1 victory over South Korea secured their place in the quarterfinals. Similar flags had been carried in by other fans in the crowd.
Pele tweeted to the players before the game to let them know that he would be watching the round of 16 match from his hospital bed and lending his support as usual.
“In 1958, I walked the streets thinking about fulfilling the promise I made to my father,” Pele said.
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“I know that today many have made similar promises and are also going in search of their first World Cup.
“I will watch the game from the hospital and I will be rooting for each one of you. Good luck!”
Pele’s health has been the subject of conflicting rumours over the past several days; his family vehemently refuted original allegations that he was receiving end-of-life treatment.
“It’s pretty unfair people saying that he is in a terminal condition, that he is under palliative care. Believe us: that’s not it,” daughter Flavia Nascimento said in an interview with Globo TV.
Another of his daughters, Kely, says Pele is hospitalised due to a respiratory infection, adding: “When he gets better he will be back home. He is not saying goodbye in a hospital right now.”
Pele remains the only man to have won three World Cups, which he achieved in 1958, 1962 and 1970.