Why is Brazil called the ‘Kingdom of Football’?

Brazil, the largest country in South America, is a melting pot of the world's races, white, black and Indian. Regardless of their ethnicity, Brazilians share a common sporting passion, which is football. From the sidewalks of houses to the big stadiums, you can see people playing or competing in football; football seems to be the most important lesson in physical education at school. Whenever there is a football match, the stadiums and TV sets are crowded and people are mesmerised. King Pele grew up in this environment. It is true to say that Brazil is the "Kingdom of Football".