Along with billions of people around the world—including millions of Nepalis—I was mesmerised by the magic of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe while watching the 2022 FIFA World Cup finale in Qatar. But another great player who constantly hovered in my heart and mind was my all-time favourite, the legendary Pelé of Brazil, battling for his life in a faraway hospital in Sao Paulo. Pelé, the King of football, passed away peacefully last week at 82. The outpouring of grief, adulation and nostalgia for him from people worldwide is a tribute to the unparalleled love and respect he commanded. Although Pele was not in Qatar for what has been dubbed the greatest FIFA World Cup ever, pictures of him in his famous number 10 shirt adorned the new, shining football stadiums in Doha with “get well soon” messages. Kul at signing of “UNICEF-FIFA Global Alliance for Children” with Carol Bellamy & Joseph Blatter flanked by Pele, Brandi Chastain, UNICEF GWA “James Bond” Roger Moore & UNICEF’s Sa
Written by and for the former staff of UNICEF