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Accra, Dec .30, GNA \u2013 Former President John Dramani Mahama has expressed sadness at the passing of Brazil\u2019s Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known worldwide as Pel\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The greatest footballer in history died in S\u00e3o Paulo on Thursday, December 29, at age 82.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The former President, in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency, said it was sad to hear the passing of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, simply known to the world as Pele.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cMy heart goes out to his family and indeed the entire football fraternity across the globe,\u201d he said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Brazil\u2019s Pele was one of the greatest footballers that ever lived, beautified the game and iconised the No. 10 shirt.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cHe inspired many of us as children, some of whom grew up to become great footballers.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cHe also was an icon for those of us who never got round to mastering the game.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cIn the brief moments we had the ball at our feet we dreamed that we were like the great soccer maestro.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mr Mahama said Pele was a respected global ambassador and symbol of courage, peace and hope for many, particularly the black race.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cRest in endless peace!\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
GNA\u00a0<\/p>\n