Brazil sent a heart-warming message to legendary forward Pele after they booked their place in the World Cup quarter-finals against South Korea.
Tite’s side eased past their Asian opponents at Stadium 974 on Tuesday evening to progress to the next round. Vinicius Jr opened the scoring in the seventh minute of the game, with Neymar, Richarlison and Lucas Paqueta all getting on the scoresheet before half-time.
Paik Seung-ho did manage to get on the scoresheet for South Korea in what was an otherwise miserable evening. Brazil on the other hand toasted their scintillating performance with dances in the aftermath of all of their goals, whilst they saluted their success at the final whistle.
They also saved some time for a special tribute for Brazil icon Pele. The 82-year-old was hospitalised earlier this week after he stopped responding to treatment for bowel cancer.
Following victory over South Korea, a banner featuring an iconic image of the former forward - as well as his name - was unfurled. The players then gathered for photos in what will likely be a special moment for the three-time World Cup winner.
Taking to Twitter ahead of the game, the former Santos striker said he would be watching the game from his hospital bed. He wrote: "In 1958, I walked the streets thinking about fulfilling the promise I made to my father.
Send your messages to Brazil icon Pele by using the comments section below
"I know that today many have made similar promises and are also going in search of their first World Cup. I will watch the game from the hospital and I will be rooting for each one of you. Good luck!"
The tribute from the squad was not the only show of support for Pele during the game. A number of banners were displayed by fans mid-match.
An update on the Brazilian’s condition will be expected within the coming days but in the meantime, he will no doubt continue offering his support to the Selecao.
A statement released shortly after he was admitted back into hospital read: "My friends, I want to keep everyone calm and positive. I'm strong, with a lot of hope and I follow my treatment as usual. I want to thank the entire medical and nursing team for all the care I have received.
"I have a lot of faith in God and every message of love I receive from you all over the world keeps me full of energy. And watch Brazil in the World Cup too! Thank you so much for everything."
Brazil are next back in action on Friday afternoon as they take on 2018 finalists Croatia. The European side edged past Japan on Tuesday on penalties after a 1-1 draw after extra-tim e.
