Portugal 1972 Away Retro Football Shirt

Portugal had suffered yet another international disappointment when finishing second in their qualifying group to Belgium for the 1972 European Championships. While the Finals tournament was ongoing in Europe, Portugal flew to South America instead to take part in the Independence Cup, a tournament to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Brazilian Declaration of Independence.

With a full-strength squad that featured big names like Eusebio, Jaime Graca, Jose Henrique, Humberto Coelho, Rui Jordao, and Toni, Portugal sailed through the first group stage winning all their fixtures against Ecuador, Iran, Chile, and the Republic of Ireland. The second group stage was similarly successful and wins over Argentina and the Soviet Union and a draw with Uruguay took the Portuguese through to a place in the Final against the hosts.

A close game was decided in Brazil’s favour in the 89th minute thanks to a goal from Jairzinho, but despite late disappointment, this was a tournament which represented Portugal’s best international performance since the 1966 World Cup.