Determination, will and dynamics rewarded

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

Goals from Di María and Musa in the closing stages of the friendly match against RC Celta gave Benfica the Algarve Trophy. The 2-0 victory on Friday, July 21, suits the Reds, who showed more desire and talent on the pitch. The greater offensive dynamics presented in the second half rewarded the eagles.

One day after triumph over Al Nassr, by 1-4, in this three-team tournament, Benfica started with Samuel Soares, Bah, Tomás Araújo, Morato, Mihailo, João Neves, Chiquinho, João Mário, Aursnes, Rafa and Gonçalo Ramos.

For the second half, Roger Schmidt opted for a completely different eleven. Odysseas, João Victor, Lucas Veríssimo, António Silva, Jurásek, Florentino, Kökcü, Di María, Neres, Tengstedt and Musa were the men chosen by the Eagles coach for the second half.

Time was running out for the Reds to score... The intensity continued and, in the 88th minute, after a cross from Jurásek, Tengstedt was fouled by Gael Alonso in the RC Celta penalty box.

Alerted by the VAR, referee Carlos Teixeira watched the move and awarded a penalty kick.

Di María took responsibility. From the 11-meter mark, the world champion for Argentina scored and put Benfica ahead (1-0, 90').

In the 90'+1', following a ball in the center, a bad pass from Tapia resulted in 2-0. Musa intercepted the ball, headed for goal and beat Blanco!

The final whistle blew and Benfica clinched the Algarve Trophy, a cause for celebration among the fans who flocked to the Estádio Algarve. At the end of the tournament, Di María was awarded the Tournament's best player award.

Having accomplished the mission, the reds will now face Burnley, in a friendly match scheduled for Tuesday, July 25, at 8:30 pm, at Estádio do Restelo.