Maracana Stadium – Ingliando

On this day, the Brazilian footballer, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known by his nickname Pelé, scored his 1000th goal, dubbed O Milésimo (The Thousandth), in a match between his team Santos FC and their opponents Vasco da Gama. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, he was among the most successful and popular sports figures of the 20th century. His 1,279 goals in 1,363 games, which includes friendlies, is recognised as a Guinness World Record. On that historic night, after slotting a penalty past goalkeeper Edgardo Andrada at the Maracana stadium, the 29-year-old Pelé used the portentous moment to beg the world to think of the children. “For the love of God, people,” he said. “Now that everyone is listening, help the children, help the helpless. That’s my only wish at this very special time for me.” Pelé, known to his fans as “O Rei” (The King) died on 29th December 2022 at the age of 82.