Puma Drops Soccer Kit Honoring The Original Black Panther You May Not Know About

Anwar Stetson

Anwar Stetson

Model wearing Puma’s Special Edition Portugal Kit. Courtesy: Puma
In the U.S., Black Panther is one of the most successful superhero films in the Marvel franchise, and it spawned a cultural movement, with phrases like “Wakanda Forever” seamlessly entering the colloquial lexicon. 

The tragic passing of actor Chadwick Boseman further cemented the iconic legacy of Black Panther. But people may not know about the original Black Panther, who’s eulogized by Puma in a new, sleek, and exclusive soccer kit. 

Courtesy: Puma
Eusébio, the OG Black Panther—known as Pantera Negra (the Black Panther), or O Rei (the King)—was an internationally renowned soccer star representing Benfica and the Portuguese National Team in the 1960’s and 70’s. On Tuesday, Puma launched a special edition of the Portugal National Team Kit to honor the legend on the 60th anniversary of him winning the 1965 Ballon d’Or award. 

Born in Mozambique when it was a colony of Portugal, Eusébio became a sports hero for fans in Africa, Western Europe, and all over the world. The prolific striker was the first ever player to win the European Golden Boot, World Cup Golden Boot and UCL Golden Boot, and he remains Portugal’s all-time scorer in World Cup goals. Puma showcased the Black Panther’s unique impact on the beautiful game in an advertisement for the exclusive kit, which will only have 1,965 authentic pieces sold. 

Eusébio (left) with his 1965 Ballon d’Or trophy, honoring the best player in soccer. Courtesy: SL Benfica

A Tribute Fitting for a Legend

According to Puma, the kit features the PUMA Cat logo and FPF crest in elevated gold material and a high-quality flat knit collar and cuffs. The Pantera Negra back-neck sign off celebrates his enduring legacy.

Courtesy: Puma

Eusébio’s widow, Floria Bruheim, gave her blessing for the tribute. 

“When PUMA reached out to us and shared what they had in mind, I felt deeply moved and honored,” she said in a statement. “Eusébio had a very close relationship with the brand and a sincere friendship with its founder, Mr. Rudolf Dassler. Seeing his memory now honored in such a beautiful and meaningful project fills me with pride. I’m sure Eusébio would be very happy with this tribute.” 

Where to Buy

The Portuguese National Team will wear the kit in only one match—a November 16 World Cup qualifier against Armenia. But you can purchase the kit right now, HERE.

Children’s kits retail for $80.00, while an adult size of the special edition jersey retails for $100.00 on the Puma website.