In a virtual pre-match pep talk, football legend Pele told Brazil on Thursday to "Bring this trophy home," as the national team members got ready to make their World Cup debut.

As the five-time champions prepared to take the pitch for their opening match against Serbia, the 82-year-old icon posted a series of pictures on Instagram showing his past World Cup glories, telling Neymar and his teammates, "Today we start writing a new story."

"We will be more than 200 million hearts beating as one, vibrating with each achievement of our 'Selecao,'" wrote Pele, the only player who won three World Cups in history.

"We must respect and play each match with the focus of a final. It is important to play beautifully, yes, but it is also essential to leave everything on the pitch," he wrote.

"I send these pictures to inspire you guys... I am sending all positive energies to you. I'm sure we'll have a happy ending. God bless you. Bring this trophy home."

Pele has had a series of health problems in recent years, but he is active on social media, and he has been considered by many the greatest footballer of all time.