The football world is in mourning after it was announced that the legendary forward, regarded by many as one of the greatest to play the game, has passed away

Portugal and Benfica great Eusebio, one of the most illustrious forwards in football history, has died at the age of 71.

Born in Mozambique in 1942, Eusebio was brought to Portugal by Benfica head coach Bela Guttman, who signed the player in 1961 after making a personal trip to Africa to see him play.

The attacker, nicknamed 'the Black Pearl,' went on to become a legend for both club and country, winning 11 Primeira Liga titles, five domestic cups and the 1962 European Cup with Aguias, as well as inspiring Portugal to third place in the 1966 World Cup.

With his speed, power and skill, Eusebio was an unstoppable force in the Portuguese league and averaged more than a goal a game, hitting 319 in just 313 appearances and remains Benfica's all-time leading scorer.

His talent saw him finish top scorer in Portugal six times, twice win the European Golden Boot (1968 an 1973) and be named European Player of the Year in 1965 as Benfica became a powerhouse of European football.

Eusebio's exploits did not unnoticed by the Portugal national side and he earned 61 caps and scored 41 times for the Selecao, most notably finishing the 1966 World Cup as one of the stars of the tournament. He scored nine times to secure the Golden Boot and also netted as his side overcame the Soviet Union 2-1 to seal third place. 

Benfica and Portugal legend Eusebio dies aged 71