After the sad passing of Brazil legend Pele, Kaizer Chiefs shared the story when the three-time World Cup winner compared Dr. Kaizer Motaung to Eusebio.
On Thursday, Pele lost his battle with cancer and passed away in hospital with his closest family present.
Worldwide tribute’s have since poured in for the Brazilian – to date the only men’s player to lift three World Cup titles – and South African clubs have also paid their respects.
Kaizer Chiefs founder and chairman Dr. Motaung had the honour to share the pitch with Pele during his time at Atlanta Chiefs in 1968 when Pele’s Santos beat Motaung’s side 6-2, with the Brazilian scoring a hat-trick and Motaung also on the scoresheet.
Motaung, though, left a serious impression on Pele who asked reporters after the game: “Who is that fellow in the number 24 jersey? I have never seen a guy hit the ball like him. His vision is fantastic. He sees things from miles away, which is a big help for any front runner. He is unquestionably in the Eusebio mould.”
That jersey number 24 was worn by Kaizer Motaung and the Brazilian soccer great made sure he met the South African after the game, taking the famous picture of the duo.
Motaung also shared his goodbye message for the Brazil icon.
“This goodbye is particularly sad because Pele is a great loss to the soccer fraternity and the entire world,” he told the club’s media department.
“He was a gift from God and I would like to offer my sympathy on behalf of myself, my family, Amakhosi family.
“We share their loss. His legacy will live on. Brazil today is the Brazil we know because of Pele.
“For me, Pele is undoubtedly the greatest footballer of all time, the king of this beautiful game. He cannot be compared to anyone else in the game, like Maradona or Messi. He was at his own level.
“But he was more than a footballer. Off the field, he was such a humble character, which impacted a lot of people. He was always jovial and touched many people with his welcoming smile.”
Image credit: Kaizer Chiefs
