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Portugal lost today one of its loved offspring: Eusébio da Silva Ferreira

I want, before any other words, to address Eusébio’s Family my very deepest condolences.

The Country is in mourning. With utter sadness, the Portuguese view the departure of one of the national figures they most admired.

Throughout his life, Eusébio conquered the love and esteem of us all. Because he was an exceptional sportsperson, one of the world’s best, who gained so much glory for Portugal.

But the Portuguese also admired Eusébio due to his being endowed with exceptional human qualities, with unusual humility and gregariousness; with the simplicity of those who are really great and have nothing further to exhibit because they have already shown they are the best.

He had a superabundant love of life, a huge joy in being alive, surrounded by the fondness of all the Portuguese.

I had the occasion, two months ago, to hug him for the last time.

When I made an official visit to Mozambique, where he was born, I was insistent that Eusébio should be included in my retinue, and was able to witness the caring interest sensed by all those who had the privilege of being closely acquainted with him.

Eusébio da Silva Ferreira was one of the most attractive personalities I met in my life.

His talents as a sportsperson brought happiness to millions of people, to whole generations.

Even those who were not part of the most glorious moments of his career are fascinated with the image of his capabilities.

In the playing field he was passionately eager to conquer. He represented the National Soccer Team with limitless dedication.

We all recall the day when he left the field in tears, crying for Portugal.

Eusébio’s tears, on that day, are our today’s tears.

The Country cries over his death. The Country is officially in mourning.

The best way to pay him a tribute, the way the “Black Panther” would prefer to be honoured, is to follow his example.

Let us follow Eusébio da Silva Ferreira’s example as a sportsperson and a human being. A champion that worked and battled to gain so many victories, a person that was always a warm friend and showed mutual respect to all who came into contact with him.

On behalf of Portugal, farewell Eusébio.