The former Benfica star was taken to the Hospital da Luz last Wednesday after it was discovered that he had contracted a form of bilateral pneumonia that affects both lungs.

However, medical director Jose Roquette, who has overseen Eusebio's condition since his arrival, has confirmed that he has made great strides in restoring his health and that he is firmly on course to leaving the hospital in the coming days.

"Our forecast is that he could be discharged on either Thursday and Friday. He might be able to be home by then," Roquette told reporters.

"Eusebio has experienced a good night and is progressing well. We have reduced the level of monitoring and he will now go to a room where he can enjoy the company of his family.

"His condition has improved as expected and he has been an excellent patient."

Eusebio, who turns 70 in January, had already shown promising signs following his transfer from the intensive care unit on Saturday in order to spend Christmas with his family in the hospital.