Pele was a unique inspiration to the African continent, says CAF president

The three-time World Cup winner, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time, passed away on Thursday after a long battle with cancer.

His passing sparked a wave of emotion and tributes across the world as Brazil began a three-day national mourning.

In a statement released by CAF, Motsepe said: "Pele was a unique inspiration to the African Continent and to football lovers worldwide and his death is a huge loss for supporters and fans of football globally.

"We have on several occasions over the past 18 months used his statement that an African Nation will win the FIFA World Cup by the year 2000, as a source of inspiration to motivate the African Nations participating in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

"We have also been inspired by the work he did and his commitment to improve the living conditions of the poor and marginalized. Pele will forever live in the hearts and minds of football lovers in Africa and worldwide."