Your questions for football legend Pele

Considered by many as the finest player to ever grace a football pitch with his presence, Pele played in four World Cups and was a three-time winner.

He also played in the last World Cup encounter between England and Brazil in the 1970 tournament in Mexico, when the South Americans won 1-0.

What is his verdict on the World Cup so far? What team has impressed him the most? Why does he think there have been so many upsets? Who will lift the trophy?

Pele has only been able to answer these questions so far.

Verdict on the England vs. Brazil match

What was the difference between England and Brazil in this World Cup?
Chris, UK

Pele:
In this game Brazil went through again on key individual performances. Despite not playing yet as a team they have found a way to make a difference individually. I do believe Brazil deserved to win because they pushed forward more even with 10 men. I was a bit surprised England didn't force the action a bit more but we must give credit to Brazil's defence. They received a lot of criticism in the first round of the tournament but against England they showed themselves well. They really didn't give England any chances to score after Owen's goal.

Also, you must remember that each team received one gift goal. Owen finished very, very well but it was Lucio that gave it up to him. And in my opinion Ronaldinho was looking to cross the ball and somehow Seaman was caught off balance. Coincidently, Brazil continues to have luck when they wear the blue jerseys. 44 years ago we (Brazil) won a very big game wearing the blue jerseys in the 1958 final in Sweden. It doesn't seem that long ago to me. Maybe our luck will continue for one more week.

Brazil's love of football

What are the underlying reasons for Brazil's great footballing tradition? How early does their education in the beautiful game start?
Paul, Australia (UK citizen)

Pele:
A lot of Brazilians - like myself - have been playing from three or four years old, sometimes even kicking around some rags tied up in the shape of a ball.

Symbolism of that shirt swap

Were you aware of how symbolic it was at the time that you and Bobby Moore swapped shirts? It was as if an inter-racial union had been created at the highest level in sport. The image of the two of you should be sported as a motif for tolerance, the world over.
Mac T, England

Pele:
I never knew at that moment it would have such an impact in years to come. All I knew was I was very very proud to exchange my jersey with Bobby Moore, who I believed not only was the best player of the 1970 World Cup but he was a fair player, an honourable man and I was so proud to have considered him a friend.

Personal

Do you still kick a football around?
Gareth Hatch, USA

Pele:
Yes I do. I have the opportunity at times to practice with my old club Santos.