Pele Sends Incredible Message To Marta After She Made Olympic History

Pele has sent a brilliant message to Brazil legend Marta, after she broke an Olympic record as Brazil beat China in their opening group game.

The opening ceremony for Tokyo 2020 isn't until Friday afternoon but the games actually got underway on Wednesday, with softball and football getting things going.

Team GB were amongst those that played on Wednesday, with Ellen White scoring both goals in a 2-0 win against Chile.

Brazil also kicked off their campaign, beating China 5-0, as they try to win their first gold medal since the women's game was introduced to the Olympics in 1996.

Amongst the scorers was six time World Player of the Year winner Marta, who became the first player to score goals in five Olympics in-a-row.

After the match, Pele took to social media to congratulate his fellow Brazilian on her achievement, and for what it means to women's football.

"Hi Marta. You must be sleeping right now, as you are on the other side of the world.

"I hope you're dreaming about what you did a few hours ago. Speaking of which, how many dreams do you think you inspired today?

"Your achievement means much more than a personal record. This moment inspires millions of athletes from so many other sports, from all over the world, who fight for recognition.

"Congratulations on your trajectory.

"Congratulations, you are much more than a football player. You help build a better world with your talent, in which women gain more space."

Marta scores against China. Image: PA Images

Marta bagged twice in the game, the opening goal and the third goal of the game, to bring up her 110th and 111th goals for the national team.

The 35-year-old has won two Olympic silver medals, at the 2004 and 2008 games, but is yet to get her hands on a gold medal.

Brazil men's team ended their 116 year wait for gold at the Olympics when they beat Germany in the final in Rio de Janeiro five years ago.

Marta wasn't the only one to create history on Wednesday, 43-year-old teammate Formiga came on late in the game to become the first player to play in seven Olympics.

Topics: Football, Pele, Brazil, Tokyo

Ryan Sidle

Ryan is a writer for SPORTbible. He covers all sport from football, formula one, cricket, rugby, tennis, athletics, mma and wrestling. He obviously hates YOUR football team and has no interest in synchronised swimming.

@Sidler28