Bento, the best of all times

On January 30th, 2015, the correspondents of UEFA decided to name the best goalkeepers ever of each federation that integrate the governing body of European football. In Portugal, the choice was Manuel Galrinho Bento, the historical goalkeeper of Benfica and the National Team, who passed away in 2007.

By the time of the election, it could be read on the UEFA website: "The late Manuel Bento was no typical goalkeeper. At only 1,73 m tall, Bento balanced out that with superb reflexes, a cool head and a fearless attitude. Nicknamed 'the rubber man' for his agility, he represented Portugal 63 times. He played for Sport Lisboa e Benfica until he well into his 40s and he officially hung up his gloves in 1992, after winning nine championships with the reds."

Born on June 25th, 1948, Bento began his senior career at Barreirense. He stood out and in 1972/73 he moved to Luz where he remained until 1991/92. His debut with an eagle on his chest happened on April 22^nd, 1973, at Estádio São Luís, against Farense (a win by 0-5). He came in at 60' to replace José Henrique, the goal stopper with whom he shared the Reds' goal until the 1976/77 season.

In the following season– 1977/78 – he claimed the number 1 spot, with  Fidalgo as his substitute. For Benfica, Manuel Bento played 636 matches and scored one goal; he won 22 titles: 9 National Championships, 5 Portuguese Cups, 2 Cândido de Oliveira Super Cup, 1 Iberian Cup and e 6 Lisbon Honor Cups.

The goalkeeper was also a legend of the National team. He represented Portugal in 63 occasions and was present in the 1984 European Championships, in France, where he helped Portugal reach the semi-finals, and the 1986 World Cup, in Mexico.

LIST OF THE BEST EVER FOR UEFA

Text: Marco Rebelo

Pics: Archive / SL Benfica