Portuguese legend Eusebio, who passed away due to heart failure on 5th January, 2014, is best remembered for his exploits in the 1966 World Cup, where he netted nine times in the tournament to end up as its highest scorer. He was also equally influential at Benfica, helping the club dominate domestically and in Europe during the 60’s. His influence was summed up by team mate Antonio Simoes, who said
With Eusebio maybe we could be European Champions, without him maybe we could win the League.
This video below shows Eusebio scoring four times to help Portugal reach the semifinals of the 1966 World Cup after trailing 3-0 to North Korea at one stage in their quarterfinal. The game has already gone down as one of the greatest in World Cup folklore
A great picture of Eusebio below, in full flight against AC Milan at Wembley in the 1963 Champions Cup final. Can you guess the Milan player next to him in the photo below? Hint, it is not a trap.
That Milan kit is sweet. Great shot though, I believe it lead to a goal in the game.
Gio trapattoni
@Sj, it does look like Trappatoni.
Didn’t believe it was him at first glance, but seeing the hint, and then your answer, confirmed that it indeed was.
actually eusebio scores 3 goals in that game..
but nice post,thanks:)
The passing of Eusabio brought back some fond memories for me of the 1966 World Cup and how much the sport has changed now due to television rights with the once mighty Benfica now forced to sell their best soccer just to be able to stay in business. First it was Matic back to Chelsea and now will be Rodriguez possibly to Arsenal or Zenit.