Diego Maradona, one of the biggest superstars in football history, passed away in 2020. And football’s “Black jewel” Pele (82) reached out to him on the other side of cancer yesterday.
But who is the greatest footballer of all time; This discussion is not over. Many football fans even argued about it. But in reality, the relationship between the two legends was undeniable.
Many controversies followed Maradona during his playing days. However, these controversies did not affect Pele’s relationship with Argentina’s World Cup-winning striker. On the contrary, they looked at each other with special respect. Even when asked on the pitch who Maradona is the greatest of all time; Did he understand? In response, he was named after three-time World Cup winner Pele.
When asked about his comparisons with Pele, Maradona, owner of Argentina’s historic number 10 jersey, replied, “No, no, Maradona Maradona; Pele is the best of the best. I’m just a casual gamer. I don’t want to beat Pele, everyone knows he (Pele) is the greatest of all time.’
The statistics say so
Pele and Maradona have an equal 14 championships in their football careers in national and club shirts. But judging by the quality of the title, Pele is ahead. Because Pele was the only player to win three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970).
Pelé remains the only player to ever win THREE World Cups 🏆🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/RhLjjYyfq3
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 29, 2022
Pele and Maradona play almost as many matches for the national team. Maradona scored 34 goals in 91 games for Argentina. Pele scored 77 goals in 90 games for Brazil. Maradona led Argentina to the 1990 World Cup final after winning the 1986 World Cup; Where the Albiceleste left after losing to Germany.
It would be unfair to compare the two greatest footballers of the two generations. Pele and Maradona did not like to compare themselves. Instead, they were seen happily spending time together. When Maradona died a few years ago, Pele was devastated.