Brazilian legend Pele looked frail as he used a frame to take to the stage at opening ceremony of the 2019 Carioca Football Championship in Rio.

The 77-year-old has been limiting his public appearances after a number of health problems last year – which saw him turn up to the 2018 World Cup draw in a wheelchair. But he was on his feet again for the bash in his native country.

The legendary striker has picked Brazil as the team to beat in Russia – hailing the influence of coach Tite.

“Those who are Brazilian and believe in Brazil always point to Brazil as the favourites,” he said. “One of the good things that happened was the arrival of Tite, he’s making a team.

“In the last World Cup we had the best players in the world but the team was disorganised.

“It seems that now we’ll have a team that gives us confidence.”

The appearance was his first in public since the World Cup draw in December – and he was able to thank all those around the world who sent him good luck messages after his health battle.

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