Pele: SAFA President Danny Jordaan’s Tribute to Brazilian Legend

• Edson Arantes do Nascimento, also known as Pele, passed away at 82 after battling cancer
• SAFA president Danny Jordaan praised the Brazil legend for his support of African football
• Jordaan joined the world in mourning Pele, with a tribute on behalf of South African football

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has paid tribute to late football legend Pele.

Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, the 82-year-old went on to become one of the all-time greats of the sport.

He passed away after a long battle with cancer, News24 confirmed.

Speaking about Pele's passing, SAFA president Dr Danny Jordaan said the world had lost one of the greats, Times LIVE reported.

“We are saddened by the passing of this icon. He was a supporter of African progress in football and supported the FIFA World Cup in South Africa in 2010."

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Pele previously predicted that an African side would win the tournament by the year 2000, and while this hasn't happened, Jordaan believes Morocco's progress to the semi-finals made the great man smile.

In extending his condolences to the family, the SAFA chief also praised Pele for being a great ambassador of the sport.

"We remember him not only as the great 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.”

Pele dies aged 82

Edson Arantes do Nascimento, affectionately called Pele, has passed on after a long battle with colon cancer.

Widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, the legendary Brazilian died on December 29 at age 82, Sports Brief reported.

According to AP News, the medical centre where he had been hospitalised for the last month confirmed he had died of multiple organ failure due to cancer.

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Brazil mourns after Pele's passing

Brazil has declared three days of mourning following the death of football's pioneering superstar Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pele.

The global football icon, who was lauded for transcending the sport, passed on to eternal glory on Thursday, December 29 after a battle with cancer, Sports Brief has reported.

Following news of his passing, three days of national mourning have been announced by outgoing President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro.