Rio 2016: Pele congratulates Brazil for gold medal

Pele has congratulated Brazil's Olympic football team for ending their long wait for a gold medal here, China's Xinhua news agency reported.

Brazil clinched their first ever Olympic football title - the only major prize to elude the five-time World Cup winners - by beating Germany 5-4 on penalties at the Maracana on Saturday.

"I waited my entire life to see Brazil win a gold medal in football and now my dream has come true," Pele said on Twitter.

I also waited my entire life to see Brazil win a #Gold Medal in #football and now my dream has come true.
— Pelé (@Pele) August 21, 2016

The Brazil legend, who declined a request to participate in the Rio 2016 opening ceremony due to ill health, also praised the organisers for a successful Games.

"Brazil welcomed the world with open arms and showed everyone our special way of life - in both work and play," the 75-year-old said in a separate tweet.

"Our role as proud hosts of the World Cup and Olympics has come to a close. I wish you all a safe journey home. Please visit us again soon."

Pele's comments came as the closing ceremony was being held at the Maracana, drawing the curtain on the first Olympics in South America.