René Vandereycken – Belgium (28/06/1986)

Here is an absolutely rare piece of history from the Red Devils' greatest World Cup in the 20th century. This match issued (prepared for the match) jersey was assigned to the iconic midfielder René Vandereycken for the clash against the French national team during the World Cup in Mexico.

Match Context: The third-place play-off of a legendary Mexican World Cup

After a heroic run, Belgium met France in Puebla for the 3rd place match of this 1986 World Cup. In the suffocating heat of the Mexican altitude, the two rival teams engaged in a spectacular and completely uninhibited duel, determined to reach the global podium. Trailing then coming back to tie, the Red Devils pushed the Blues into extra time after a thrilling match. Ultimately, Belgium honorably lost 4-2 after extra time, thus concluding the most beautiful epic in its modern history before the eyes of the entire world.

René Vandereycken: A locker room armor for a historic summit

General of the Belgian midfield, captain René Vandereycken remained on the bench for this final showdown, preserved by Guy Thys after a physically extremely intense tournament. His official jersey was meticulously prepared by the team's logistics for this legendary third-place play-off. This jersey features the mythical red of the Belgian crest, complemented by FIFA's regulatory specifications for the 1986 World Cup, including the period heat-pressed number on the back. Presenting all the professional locker room characteristics, it is an unobtainable and legendary global treasure.