Brazil’s players displayed a banner in support of Pele as they celebrated their victory over South Korea in the last 16 of the World Cup.

The squad unfurled the banner, which featured just one word – ‘Pele!’ – alongside a picture of the Brazil great, in the wake of their 4-1 triumph.

Pele had earlier sent a message to his compatriots ahead of the match.

The three-time World Cup winner said on social media he would be watching the game from the hospital in Sao Paulo where he was admitted last week.

There were grave concerns over the 82-year-old’s health when news outlets in Brazil reported that he had been moved to palliative care.

However, an update from doctors about his treatment for colon cancer was followed by a message on the legend’s Instagram page that he was “strong” and which called for calm.

Ahead of Monday evening’s game at Stadium 974, Pele recalled memories of his World Cup debut in 1958.

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He wrote on Twitter: “In 1958, I walked the streets thinking about fulfilling the promise I made to my father.

“I know that today many have made similar promises and are also going in search of their first World Cup.

“I’ll be watching the game from hospital and I’ll be rooting for each one of you. Good luck!”

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