The 1982 All Whites team had a chance meeting with Pelé before their final game of the 1982 World Cup against Brazil. Photo: AFP
Some of New Zealand's top footballers are reminiscing on a special moment meeting Brazilian football legend Pelé, following news of his death on Friday.
The 82-year-old had been in and out of hospital in recent months after a tumour was found on his colon.
Pelé was a figure on TV for most New Zealanders - but the 1982 All Whites team had a chance meeting with him before their final game of the World Cup against Brazil.
Goalkeeper Frank van Hattum said it was chaos in the changing room as Pelé walked in, handing out signed shirts.
"It was just huge, you know. Five minutes later we're going to go out and play Brazil, we're all a little bit twitchy and nervous about the whole process.
"And there's Pelé, large as life, and he didn't speak English but everyone got photos, and it was really quite special because he was, and is, a legend."
Van Hattum said he grew up watching Pelé dominate the pitch.
"Pelé was ever-present and that name will forever live on, people will always remember that goal, or that game, that sort of stuff.
"I'll always remember watching him at the school hall as a little kid, watching grainy pictures of World Cup action and Pelé was always featuring.
"That's my special memory of him."
Brazilian greats Pelé (L) and Zico (R) with ex All White Steve Sumner after Sumner received the Fifa Order of Merit in South Africa in 2010. Photo: Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ
Van Hattum went on to meet Pelé a handful of times as chairman of New Zealand Football, and likened his presence at FIFA functions to that of Nelson Mandela.
"He just draws an audience, and mainly because everyone appreciated just what a talent he was.
"A really, really special talent."
Defender Ricki Herbert was also part of the 1982 side, and said Pelé's energy and influence continued long after he retired.
Ricki Herbert in action for the All Whites in a 1982 World Cup qualifying game against Kuwait. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
"He was somebody who put a stake in the ground and made an incredible statement in the world of football at such a young age.
"I think his presence as a player was just so immense, that him being present in football stadiums, around football competitions, connecting globally around the world, grassroots football, mentoring, and just being that really electric person."
Herbert said those who got photos with Pelé on that day in 1982 would be looking back on them with emotion.
