Abedi Pelé, 3 defining moments of a legendary career

1982 Africa Cup of Nations winner

To kick off this look back at Ayew's career, it is impossible not to think of the 1982 Africa Cup of Nations, the last one won by Ghana. At just 17, Abedi Pelé was picked by Black Stars coach Charles Kumi Gyamfi, who believed in his promising talent. Though not yet an undisputed starter, the attacking midfielder played an important part as a rotation option, notably making a fine introduction in the final against Libya (1-1, 7-6 on penalties), in which Ghana secured the fourth star in their history. Abedi Ayew, who was also an unlucky finalist against Côte d'Ivoire in 1992, scored 19 goals in 73 appearances for Ghana, who, 42 years on, are still chasing a fifth star.

Read also: AFCON 2023: Abedi Pelé's surprising prediction for Ghana

1993 Champions League

This is probably the most memorable moment of Abedi Pelé's entire career. The Oko native was part of the golden generation that won Olympique Marseille's only Champions League in 1993. It was he, moreover, who provided the assist (from a corner) for Basile Boli's winning goal. He thus became "forever the first" Ghanaian player in history to lift the Champions League. Also a three-time French champion (1989, 1991 and 1992), Abedi Pelé left his mark during his time at Marseille, where he is an absolute legend.

Abedi Pelé, 3-time African Footballer of the Year

With his magical left foot and silky technique, Abedi Ayew was the kind of player who got crowds in the stadiums off their seats with every touch of the ball. His dazzling dribbling and creativity earned him the nickname "Pelé" from childhood, as many saw in him traits of the Brazilian great Pelé. It was a nickname that never left him, and under it he won three "African Footballer of the Year" titles in 1991, 1992 and 1993. Abedi Pelé is a benchmark and a model of success for the younger generation and for his children Rahim, André and Jordan, who have followed in his footsteps in football.