Soccer fans in Brazil have gathered in the port city of Santos to say farewell to three-time World Cup winner and sports legend Pele, who died on Thursday at the age of 82.

Pele, whose real name was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, spent 18 years in the city as a professional player, contributing to its Santos FC soccer club's two Intercontinental Cup titles.

Pele's coffin was carried from a hospital to Vila Belmiro Stadium in the city on Monday. It was placed in the midfield area, where mourners filed past the coffin as his family members and relatives stood nearby.

A 17-year-old boy said he came to say goodbye to Pele after travelling 12 hours from the country's south. He said he would never forget the experience.

A woman said she holds deep respect for Pele, thanking him for helping Brazil to greatly increase its global presence.

Pele's coffin will lay in state at the stadium for 24 hours, then it will be carried to the funeral held by his family members and relatives.