Uruguay was the world's first football dynasty, dominating international competition in the first half of the 20th century. After claiming back-to-back 1924 and 1928 Olympic gold medals, La Celeste captured the inaugural 1930 FIFA World Cup. Led during their golden era by José Leandro Andrade (aka "The Black Marvel”), it was fellow countrymen Juan Alberto Schiaffino and Alcides Ghiggia who took the baton into the next generation. All three played professionally in Uruguay for Peñarol, but the latter two made simultaneous moves to Serie A where they became superstars. From 1954-61 for AS Roma, Ghiggia scored 19 goals in 201 matches while Shiaffino starred for AC Milan during that same period. They were so beloved in Italy that both became naturalized Italian citizens and represented the Azzurri to end their respective international careers.

Ghiggia’s most glorious moment on the pitch came at the 1950 FIFA World Cup where he helped lead Uruguay to its second title. Down 1-0 to Brazil in the final against Brazil, Schiaffino equalized in the second half before Ghiggia knocked in the game-winner with 11 minutes left for a thrilling 2-1 victory at Maracanã Stadium in front of a record 173,850 attendees. The shocking result was memorialized as “The Maracanã Smash.”

Presented here is the earliest Italian National Team jersey we have handled, straight off the back of Alcides Ghiggia during his brief tenure with the Azzurri. This 1958 Italy home shirt is essentially a long-sleeved royal blue sweater manufactured by Italo Sport. The simple design featured a ribbed neck collar with the Italian Football Federation's shield badge on the left chest. Ghiggia’s number “7” is sewn on the reverse in white felt material, and he has signed his full name on the number in black ink that remains perfectly legible. The all-original jersey displays outstanding wear with heavy pilling to the blue fabric. Unlike most vintage shirts made in this thick sweater-like style, this exemplar has been exceptionally well-preserved with no holes or moth damage from storage. Includes letter of authentication from MEARS.

The Football Scout Collection

Our consignor holds one of the most impressive vintage football jersey collections known to exist. Once a star amateur player, he later worked as a scout for multiple clubs and national teams, prospecting young football talent across the globe. Through his experience and unique connections, he procured almost every item directly from players or kitmen.