Jardel: 200 matches with the Sacred Mantle

Jardel has reached the mark of 200 appearances for Benfica, in Saturday's match, against Rio Ave, for Gameweek 21 of Liga NOS, where he scored the first goal of the Eagles' comeback (48’) and made an assist for the third goal, scored by Jonas.

A match and a victory (5-1) with a special taste for the Brazilian centre-back, who reached a historic milestone in his career and was also elected the Man of the Match.

“I'm very happy for the victory and also for the 200 matches with Benfica. It is a historic moment in my life. Happy with the goal and for helping the team to achieve the victory, which was the most important”, he said, to BTV.

The 31-year-old player joined Sport Lisboa e Benfica in the second half of the 2010/11 season and he is in his eighth season with an eagle badge on his chest.

He has already participated in 140 victories, 30 draws and 30 defeats of the Club from Luz.

He made his debut with the Reds' jersey on January 30th, 2011, at the stadium of CD Aves, in a match of the 2nd group stage of the League Cup, in Benfica's rout over Desportivo das Aves (4-0).

Up to now, Jardel has scored 12 goals with the Sacred Mantle and has a vast list of titles at Luz: 4 National Championships, 2 Portuguese Cups, 5 League Cups and e 2 Cândido Oliveira Super Cups.

Remembering this 200-match mark, Jardel was not indifferent and thanked everyone's support.

“Not even in my best dream I would imagine what I'm living today. I'm very happy. I thank all, my teammates - who also helped me -, the supporters, who are always with us, our president, who is also supporting us, every day in Seixal. Now it's time to move on and try to reach our goal”, said Jardel.

Text: Márcia Dores

Pics: SL Benfica