SL Benfica News

[Calif]

Thursday December 21, 2006

Benfica 4 - 0 Belenenses

20' S Simao (pen) 1 - 0
44' G Karagounis 2 - 0
53' F Fonseca 3 - 0
78' K Katsouranis 4 - 0

* The Mexican Soccer player Finally Scored a goal!!!

[Port Wine]

Thursday December 21, 2006

Benfica 4 - 0 Belenenses

20' S Simao (pen) 1 - 0
44' G Karagounis 2 - 0
53' F Fonseca 3 - 0
78' K Katsouranis 4 - 0

* The Mexican Soccer player Finally Scored a goal!!!
Yeah, Fonseca got a goal! This will certainly boost his confidence. He was aplauded by the spectators in the stadium as he walked off the field. The coach is starting to give him more time on the pitch. This is great!

[Calif]

Yeah I really really hope he stays today I read in the news that some club from Mexico was already talking to the club Benfica to obtain Kikin Fonseca back!!!!But I hope that he stays this will help his confidence as you said!!! I heard that a lot of the news papers in Portugal had Kikin celebrating his goal in the cover not sure if its true!!!

[Port Wine]

Yeah I really really hope he stays today I read in the news that some club from Mexico was already talking to the club Benfica to obtain Kikin Fonseca back!!!!But I hope that he stays this will help his confidence as you said!!! I heard that a lot of the news papers in Portugal had Kikin celebrating his goal in the cover not sure if its true!!!

Yep! Here in Portugal we have 3 daily sports magazines. "Record", "A Bola" and "O Jogo". On two of them they had Kikin celebrating his goal.

Front page of Record:
http://www.record.pt/capa.asp?id=730424

Front page of A Bola:
http://www.abola.pt/wset/wdia.htm

Front page of O Jogo:
http://www.ojogo.pt/22-304/index.htm

[Port Wine]

According to "Record", Portuguese sports magazine, America have stopped trying to get Kikin Fonseca to play for their team.

http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=731077&idCanal=11

[benfica64]

Benfica beats lazio 5-3 in pks today to take home da money.


VIVA BENFICA

Benfica Sempre

[Port Wine]

Benfica beats lazio 5-3 in pks today to take home da money.


VIVA BENFICA

Benfica Sempre
Yeah, Benfica left Dubai with a much bigger bank account than when the arrived. :lol:

[benfica64]

Yeah, Benfica left Dubai with a much bigger bank account than when the arrived. :lol:

when Benfica got there they turned to there Arab friends in Dubai and said Look Man its Lazio we are playing No sweat So lets deal with this right now.

SHOW ME DA MONEY!!!!

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Xizor]

Yeah I really really hope he stays today I read in the news that some club from Mexico was already talking to the club Benfica to obtain Kikin Fonseca back!!!!But I hope that he stays this will help his confidence as you said!!! I heard that a lot of the news papers in Portugal had Kikin celebrating his goal in the cover not sure if its true!!!

People were saying that this was just a rummor, that's what I herd!

[Port Wine]

Kikin Fonseca is leaving Benfica and is going to join Tigres. It's official, just saw it on Portuguese TV. It's a pity, I'd like to have seen him play more, here in Portugal.

[benfica64]

yeah what a shame I was fond of ol kikin. Hell if he cant stay with Benfica he should have tried another European club, I dont know if he has even a say in the matter??? you think he would?

[Port Wine]

yeah what a shame I was fond of ol kikin. Hell if he cant stay with Benfica he should have tried another European club, I dont know if he has even a say in the matter??? you think he would?
I don't think both teams took into consideration what he wanted. Anyway, I hope he has success in Tigres. I heard on TV he'll be back to his hometown.

[Xizor]

Kikin Fonseca is leaving Benfica and is going to join Tigres. It's official, just saw it on Portuguese TV. It's a pity, I'd like to have seen him play more, here in Portugal.

Just herd as well, it's a shame because he was starting to get some playing time and he was doing good! I don't even think he choose to go to Tigres, his dad set up the whole thing! And I don't think he's going back to his hometown, I think he's from Mexico City!

[efcforlife]

HELP!!! Can anyone please tell me the situation regarding manual fernades??
Is he joining Everton in epl or not??

Please someone tell us????:lol:


oh and is he any good :)

[Port Wine]

HELP!!! Can anyone please tell me the situation regarding manual fernades??
Is he joining Everton in epl or not??

Please someone tell us????:lol:


oh and is he any good :)
First of all, welcome to SFN. Glad to see new members around.

Manuel Fernandes renewed his contract with Benfica this Friday. The contract is valid till 2011. He's going to be loaned to Everton till the end of this season.

Is he good? Well, that's kind of subjective but I see him as being a young prospect of Portuguese football. He's only 20 years old but is quite skillful with the ball.

I really don't know if he's going to do well in Everton. I guess we'll just have to see how it goes.

[Port Wine]

Rumour has it that Brazilian defender David Luiz will fill Ricardo Rocha's position after he left to play for Totenham.

He's 20 years old and currently plays at Vitória da Baía, Brasil.

[Xizor]

So how's Benfica been doing lately?

[Panathinaikos2]

Karagounis and Katsouranis are having a great season at Benfica so far :)

[benfica64]

Benfica

Sempre

[Xizor]

Karagounis, I liked this guy when he played in Inter!

[poutismalakas]

I didn't know that there was 2 Greeks on that team...........

[Port Wine]

I didn't know that there was 2 Greeks on that team...........
Yeah, both Karagounis and Katsouranis play at Benfica. Fernando Santos hired Katsouranis (former AEK) this year. He's an outstanding player and is having a great season at Benfica. It didn't take him long to adapt to his new club.

Karagounis had a terrible season last year. He was on the list of players Benfica were going to sell. He all of a sudden starting playing better and more consistently so they decided to keep him.

FC Porto also used to have a Greek player, Seitaridis. Fysss played for Benfica a short while back.

[benfica64]

Hey Port Bro Give Me A Hug!!!!!!!!!


Benficaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yahoo!!


They Made My Day!!

Lets Not Forget Braga Which Also Done Great In Knocking Out Parma And Beating Them 2 Straight As Well 2-0.

Its Lousy Weather Here But Bro Iam Feeling

Fine!!!!!!

Benfica Sempre!!!!!!!

[Hellas40]

Benfica win 2-1!!!!

And a Greek scores the winner!!!!!!

Katsouranis with the winner!!!!! How good is that!!!!!

Good to see Greek players leading their teams to victory. Well done Katsouranis!!!

[benfica64]

Benfica win 2-1!!!!

And a Greek scores the winner!!!!!!

Katsouranis with the winner!!!!! How good is that!!!!!

Good to see Greek players leading their teams to victory. Well done Katsouranis!!!

:lol: :lol: :lol: Dude you have to do alot and I mean alot more than this to upset me on this day!! Benfica and Braga move on!!!! What a glorious day. Oh by the way Kats netted a nice one. VIVA BENFICA!!! Iam sorry about AEK and Pana being knocked out of the UEFA better luck next time.

[benfica64]

Benfica play PSG next. My favorite playing against another team I like this is going to be awesome.

GO Benfica Go

[poutismalakas]

:lol: :lol: :lol: Dude you have to do alot and I mean alot more than this to upset me on this day!! Benfica and Braga move on!!!! What a glorious day. Oh by the way Kats netted a nice one. VIVA BENFICA!!! Iam sorry about AEK and Pana being knocked out of the UEFA better luck next time.
Just to let you know maybe it is baiting (something that your fairly good at!) but at least be happy that a Greek HELPED your team win!!

[Hellas40]

:lol: :lol: :lol: Dude you have to do alot and I mean alot more than this to upset me on this day!! Benfica and Braga move on!!!! What a glorious day. Oh by the way Kats netted a nice one. VIVA BENFICA!!! Iam sorry about AEK and Pana being knocked out of the UEFA better luck next time.

No seriously Im not trying to upset you. The rest of the Portugese should be taking notes.........How a bit of heart can lead to success, this is what you guys missed dearly at Euro 2004.
A Greek scoring the winner, this is great for Greeks right round the football world. Well done Katsouranis for leading by example.

[autobus]

don't worry guys, the PSG is goin to kill you
come on Paris

[benfica64]

don't worry guys, the PSG is goin to kill you
come on Paris


Dear Auto lets not forget Benfica is not AEK :lol: :lol: which got smoked out of the water 4-0. We welcome PSG with open arms.

[autobus]

I warn you, we got Pauletta :p 10 goals in L1 :D
attention

[benfica64]

I warn you, we got Pauletta :p 10 goals in L1 :D
attention


True Dat!!

[poutismalakas]

Dear Auto lets not forget Benfica is not AEK :lol: :lol: which got smoked out of the water 4-0. We welcome PSG with open arms.
What does AEK losing 1-0, 4-0 or winning 1-0 have ANYTHING to do with Benifca and PSG!!!!??? STOP BAITING!!! do it again and you won't like it!

[benfica64]

What does AEK losing 1-0, 4-0 or winning 1-0 have ANYTHING to do with Benifca and PSG!!!!??? STOP BAITING!!! do it again and you won't like it!

If your looking for baiters dont go any further than Hellas40. Iam Using AEK to make an example to Auto that PSG wont have the same easy time they had with AEK. Very nice pouty let all the posters here see why you gave me 10 % warning!!!

Dear Auto lets not forget Benfica is not AEK which got smoked out of the water 4-0. We welcome PSG with open arms.

For this Post Pouts gives me 10% now if this is warranted then I figure you simply can no longer say anything what so ever here in these forums. ITs really very sad that mods like this completely try to nail you for personal enjoyment. The post is here for all to see!! 10% warning folks for this post!! ask yourself if its not personal????

[poutismalakas]

as I said you made that comment as a bait to get hellas pissed! enuff said!! your baiting tactics has gone on too long!!!!

[benfica64]

as I said you made that comment as a bait to get hellas pissed! enuff said!! your baiting tactics has gone on too long!!!!

That is a lie!! Not only do you not care about hellas baiting me you even allow him to have that provoking sig. Good Lord Man that sig alone speaks volumes how Hellas is soley here trying to bait provoke and insult yet you do nothing!!! Why??? Because he is Greek. NO other reason.

[poutismalakas]

how is that bad??????

GREECE - EURO 2004 CHAMPIONS EUROBASKET CHAMPIONS 1987 & 2005
"Champions Don't Cry"

[benfica64]

how is that bad??????

GREECE - EURO 2004 CHAMPIONS EUROBASKET CHAMPIONS 1987 & 2005
"Champions Don't Cry"

Look at his aviator??? anyone who is honest with themself would admit that is on there soley too provoke and try to goat myself and any other Portuguese.

[poutismalakas]

maybe just you cause I talked with port wine and he was upset about his sig that had that pic BUT he doesn't have any issues with that avatar! YOU started all this mess back May 06!! Don't tell me when ever Greeks are in arugments you don't chime in to just bait and gloat with your 5 words posts ????

[poutismalakas]

NIce to know that you didn't want to continue our conversation AGAIN

[Panathinaikos2]

Yeah, both Karagounis and Katsouranis play at Benfica. Fernando Santos hired Katsouranis (former AEK) this year. He's an outstanding player and is having a great season at Benfica. It didn't take him long to adapt to his new club.

Karagounis had a terrible season last year. He was on the list of players Benfica were going to sell. He all of a sudden starting playing better and more consistently so they decided to keep him.In my oppinion Karagounis is a bit better than Katsouranis.

[Hellas40]

Look at his aviator??? anyone who is honest with themself would admit that is on there soley too provoke and try to goat myself and any other Portuguese.

What is wrong with my avator and sig really?? my sig just says Greece's achievements and the avator is of a current football player. And as for the "champions dont cry"..when do you see champions cry?, they are always celebrating. Thats all.
Paranoida strikes deep man.....wow

[Port Wine]

Benfica and Hellas. You guys clash. I suggest each of you put the other on your ignore list. If you need some help on this, I be glad to explain how it's done.

[Spartiates]

Benfica64 I agree with you. Re poutismalakas I think you're over-moderating things in here and being too harsh on benfica64. Ben64 wasn't baiting and simply making his opinion and comparing Aek with PSG.

[Port Wine]

Lady luck deserts Léo's Benfica
Friday, 13 April 2007
by Matthew Spiro
from Lisbon

Brazilian defender Léo felt SL Benfica were lacking only "a little bit of luck" against RCD Espanyol on Thursday after laying siege to the visitors' goal for long periods of the second half without reward.

Benfica denied
The Lisbon giants began the evening confident of reaching their first European semi-final for 14 years having scored two away goals in the UEFA Cup quarter-final first leg last week. The 3-2 loss in Barcelona left Fernando Santos's men requiring victory by a solitary goal, yet the task proved beyond them as Rui Costa and Fabrizio Miccoli both struck the woodwork while goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz denied Nuno Gomes with a miraculous save to ensure the game finished goalless.

'We kept fighting'
Léo struggled to hide his disappointment after Benfica's elimination but said the team had tried everything. "We feel very sad but this was one of those nights when the ball just didn't want to go in," the left-back, 31, told uefa.com. "We knew Espanyol would try to hold on to their advantage and they proved tough to break down but we kept fighting until the last minute, and nobody could question our determination or commitment. The only thing lacking was maybe a bit of luck."

Dose of fortune
Espanyol certainly lived a charmed life as Benfica, cheered on by fervent support, cranked up the pressure after the interval. While Iraizoz was commanding throughout, the custodian relied on a dose of fortune when Miccoli's shot hit the inside of the post and rebounded on to his back before being cleared. Léo said: "We played particularly well in the second half, pushing Espanyol back and creating chances. For one of those chances, the ball rebounded off the post and hit their goalkeeper, yet still didn't go in."

'An excellent team'
Benfica will need to put the setback behind them promptly as they bid to close the three-point gap to Portuguese league leaders FC Porto when they take on SC Braga on Monday. Former Brazilian international Léo insisted they could draw comfort from their European run, saying: "Everybody saw tonight that Benfica have an excellent team and a strong group of players. We thought we were good enough to go further but it wasn't to be, so now we will focus on the league and do everything we can to win the title."

©uefa.com 1998-2007. All rights reserved.


We should have won this game. We played much better thtan Espanhol. They were very lucky especially after two brillant chances at goal hit the post. :faint2:

[Xizor]

Yo, how's Benfica doing?

[SiN]

This thread has become only about News and Current Afairs that are currently going on in the club :)

[Xizor]

Sure thing boss! :D

[SiN]

Rui Costa has officially ended his football career.

He was last playing for Benfica FC.

Its so sad seeing such a great footballer leave the scene, you will be remembered for your grace and talent.

Thank-you RUI COSTA!

[SiN]

According to Marca there are more contact between Benfica and the former manager of Valencia Quique Sanchez Flores. The first past choice of the club was Sven Goran Eriksson, but the swedish manager is too slow to end deal with Manchester City.

[SiN]

He signed a contract for two years. Quique Flores, is officially the new coach of Benfica. The coach was presented to the press by the Portuguese club president, Luis Filipe Vieira.

[O Maestro 10]

Reyes said "We need to work to become champions"
Article::.: Jornal Record :.: (http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=798595&idCanal=11)

[O Maestro 10]

Benfica beat Feyenoord 1-0 with a "bomb" of a goal by Oscar Cardozo assisted by Pablo Aimar. Jose Antonio Reyes first touches were a shot that just hit the bar.
Article::.: Jornal Record :.: (http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=798547&idCanal=4)

[O Maestro 10]

Starting Lineup for us...
Quim; Maxi Pereira, Katsouranis, Luisão e Léo; Yebda, Ruben Amorim, Carlos Martins e Urreta; Aimar e Cardozo

[O Maestro 10]

Yebda wants to guarantee the title.
Article::.: Jornal Record :.: (http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=798600&idCanal=11)

[O Maestro 10]

http://www.record.pt/imgs/IMAGENS_110415.jpg
http://www.record.pt/imgs/IMAGENS_110414.jpg
http://www.record.pt/imgs/IMAGENS_110411.jpg

[O Maestro 10]

Quique Flores said " I liked a lot of the game"
http://abola.pt/nnh/ver.aspx?id=146174

[O Maestro 10]

Cardozo's goal did little for the good exibition match.
http://abola.pt/nnh/ver.aspx?id=146171

[O Maestro 10]

Cardozo dedicates all of his goals to his son.
http://www.ojogo.pt/24-172/Artigo739495.asp

[O Maestro 10]

Quique Flores: " Every game Benfica gets better.
http://infordesporto.sapo.pt/Informacao/Modalidades/Futebol/noticiafutebol_futslbquiquedec_100908_526249.asp

[O Maestro 10]

Radamel Falcao is the alternative of Luis Garcia.
http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=798820&idCanal=11

[O Maestro 10]

Cardozo wants to stay with Benfica.
http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=798825&idCanal=11

[O Maestro 10]

Racing Close In On Binya
http://www.goal.com/images/33047_thumb.jpg
With Aldo Duscher now gone it appears more and more likely that Racing Santander will soon complete a deal for Benfica midfielder Gilles Binya.

[O Maestro 10]

Binya to Racing?
http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=798991&idCanal=11

[O Maestro 10]

Osasuna have gotten Benfica defender Tiago Gomes on loan.
http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=799006&idCanal=11

[O Maestro 10]

Di Maria might play for Aguerro in Argentina's match against Serbia.
http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=798999&idCanal=11

[O Maestro 10]

Binya to substitute Aldo Duscher
http://www.record.pt/noticia.asp?id=798821&idCanal=11

[O Maestro 10]

Racing Santander close to deal for Benfica's Binya

Racing Santander are closing in on a deal for Benfica midfielder Gilles Binya.

The 24 year-old Cameroon international will arrive in Santander as a replacement for Sevilla-bound Aldo Duscher.

Racing are still thrashing out terms with Benfica for Binya, who has impressed new coach Quique Sanchez Flores in preseason.I really want him to stay...It'll be sad if he leaves.

[O Maestro 10]

Cardozo Wants Benfica Stay

The Paraguayan hit-man joined Benfica from Newell's Old Boys nearly a year ago for a fee of €11 million and rattled in 22 goals in his first season with the Eagles.

He had reportedly been placed on Benfica's transfer list following the appointment of Quique Flores as coach but a transfer away from Estádio da Luz never materialized.

El Tacuara has been in sensational form in Benfica's pre-season so far, scoring three goals in the three games he has played.

He scored the winning goal against Feyenoord on Saturday and has told his representative, Pedro Aldave, he wants to stay at the club despite the transfer rumours.

"Cardozo is very happy with this pre-season start at Benfica. He does not want to leave the club because he is convinced this is Benfica's year. The signings that have been made have excited him and he has already told me he will fight to be a starter in every game.

"Yesterday [Saturday] he made another great game and he loved not only the team's performance but also the ovation he got when he was replaced. He will do a great season, he wants to stay at Benfica and he is only thinking about titles because he believes the club have the team to win the league."Good. I hope he does stay.

[O Maestro 10]

Balboa wants to prove how good he is.
Translated by O Maestro 10 from Record.

[O Maestro 10]

Balboa Heaps Praise On Benfica

The Equatorial Guinea international joined Benfica from Real Madrid earlier in the summer but has found first-team opportunities rather hard to come by in the pre-season.

Rubem Amorim, who also signed for the Eagles this summer, has been Quique Flores' first pick, which has made Balboa start the games on the bench, just like it happened against Feyenoord on Saturday.

Balboa claims to be in good condition but is still hoping he will grab a regular spot in the team.

"I don't think I have demonstrated my real ability, and nor have my team-mates, but that's normal because we only have one month of preparation," he said.

"Last season, at Real Madrid, I played as a starter in pre-season and then I barely got to play again. I hope that the contrary happens here, but the most important thing is that the team start the season well to get stability."

When quizzed on the differences between Benfica and Real Madrid, he noted: "There are no differences whatsoever. When it comes to facilities, these are two identical clubs, just like when it comes to importance. Everyday, newspapers talk about Benfica."

Balboa considered FC Porto Benfica's main threat for the league title but insisted that his side have the quality to finish the season in first place.
Luís Mira

[O Maestro 10]

Roy Keane's Sunderland wants MakukulaTranslated by O Maestro 10 from Record.

[valdanito_10]

Is Aimar a transfer or loan?

[O Maestro 10]

Is Aimar a transfer or loan?
A Transfer:D

[O Maestro 10]

After Malbranque, Diouf, Chimbonda and Colgan, Sunderland are ready to set another strike on the market: boss Roy Keane seems in fact particularly interested in Benfica striker Ariza Makukula, also tracked by Hull City

[O Maestro 10]

Falcao Wants Benfica Move

The Colombian striker has been linked with a transfer towards Estádio da Luz in case Benfica fail to secure their top priority, Espanyol's Luis García.

Espanyol are standing firm over their asking price of €10 million for the striker, which has made Benfica switch their attention to the River Plate man.

According to news daily Record, the Argentine giants are willing to do business for the 22-year-old striker but only for the right figure as Falcao has been a regular first-team choice.

The paper further claims that, in the next few days, a formal offer from Benfica will be made for Falcao, who has voiced his wish for new challenge.

"That is a goal that I have and this would be a great opportunity," he said. "I have made my mark in Argentina, but I am ready to further my career."

Although he has not received an offer from Benfica as of yet, he has conceded that he would welcome a transfer to Estádio da Luz: "Going to Benfica would be beautiful."Luís Mira

[O Maestro 10]

Benfica – Quique Flores: the coach the Eagles have been looking for

http://www.portugoal.net/images/benfica/QuiqueFloresSanchez20080525.JPG After years of empty promises from club president Luis Filipe Vieira that Benfica have “their best squad in decades”, the calm and realistic yet assertive stance adopted by new Spanish coach Quique Flores could at last lead to a serious challenge from the Eagles.

The former Valencia boss, instead of falling into the temptation of his predecessors by going along with the president and promising an all-conquering team, has emphasised the simple tenets of building steadily and working hard.

Perhaps more importantly, the Spaniard has spoken of the need to change the culture/mentality of the perennial underachievers, rubbishing the idea that because Benfica are the biggest club in Portugal they have a divine right to be the best. And evolution rather than revolution is what has been seen on the pitch. After some stuttering early performances, Benfica have started to click.

Flores’s coaching style is known for placing emphasis on a watertight defence, and should he endow Benfica with a solid rearguard, the team will surely mount a lasting challenge for the title, given that the array and quality of attacking options suggest scoring will not be a problem.

Oscar Cardozo impressed in his first year in Lisbon, despite missing pre-season training. With weeks of intensive preparation behind him, the Paraguayan looks several notches above his level of last season and will be a potent spearhead at the sharp end of Benfica’s forward movement.

Ably backed up by attack-minded players of the quality of seasoned internationals Pablo Aimar and Reyes, and the bristling energy of exciting youngsters Di Maria and Urreta, Benfica have the tools to upset the meanest of defences at home and abroad.


Key man: Carlos Martins

It was a surprise to many when Quique Flores made the former Sporting midfielder one of his first targets upon being appointed Benfica coach. And Flores immediately handed Martins the role of team organiser in the middle of the pitch, even following the arrival of a seemingly natural no. 10, Pablo Aimar.

Martins will be desperate to prove his coach showed astute judgement as he looks to re-launch his career and force his way back into the Portugal set-up.


Question marks: Defensive cover

With David Luiz still recovering from long-term injury and new centre-back Sidnei yet to full adapt to his new teammates and surroundings, Flores has continued the ploy of last season in adapting defensive midfielder Katsouranis to centre-half to partner Brazilian international Luisao. If injuries strike, lack of alternatives at the heart of the defence could prove a major problem for the Eagles.

[O Maestro 10]

Adriano is not going to play against Benfica.Translated by O Maestro 10 from Record.

[O Maestro 10]

Di Maria's Argentina beat Sporting goalie's Serbia 2-0.
Translated by O Maestro 10 from Record.

[O Maestro 10]

Benfica's Di Maria has helped lead Argentina to the Olympic quarterfinal round, following a 2-0 victory earlier today against Serbia (with Sporting C.P. goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic). Argentina, which feature Messi and Riquelme, play Saturday against EURO U-21 champions Holland, which feature Roy Makaay and Ryan Babel...

[O Maestro 10]

Speaking of Holland and the Olympics, Benfica property Freddy Adu (Now on loan to Monaco) had one of his best games in a 2-2 USA draw against Holland this past weekend. Due to an accumulation of yellow cards, he was sorely missed in USA's 2-1 elimination loss earlier today to Nigeria, which featured Oladapo Olufemi from Boavista.

[O Maestro 10]

Benfica acquire full Di María rights

http://www.planetbenfica.co.uk/e107_images/newspost_images/dimaria01.jpg (http://www.planetbenfica.co.uk/news.php?item.497.5)
Benfica have paid the remaining 20% of Ángel Di María's transfer fee for €2m to acquire the full rights of the Argentine.

The ex-Rosario Central player is now binded with Benfica until 2012 with a release fee clause set at €30m. The first 80% cost Benfica €6m at the start of the 2007/08 season. The club have issued an official statement about this matter on their official website.
Di María won the u-20 World Cup with Argentina and is currently representing his country at the Beijing Olympics 2008.

Beijing 2008

The Argentine has been following Benfica's pre-season progress closely, and hopes to have a chance of playing first team football when he is back in Lisbon.

"I don't think I have a disadvantage and was in the same situation at the under 20's World Cup last year. I was a substitute in the first 2 games in the Olympics group stage and made the first team today. I just have to keep working hard to be first choice in Benfica too."

"I have been keeping in touch with and who inform me about the progress at the club. I am really happy they are working well. Reyes and Aimar are great players, hopefully we can have a good season."

[O Maestro 10]

http://infordesporto.sapo.pt/Imagens/225340.jpg
Quique wants to win the Eusebio Cup against Inter.

[O Maestro 10]

http://infordesporto.sapo.pt/Imagens/216914.jpg
Mantorras missed training and is going to miss the game with Inter.

[O Maestro 10]

Mourinho: Eusebio Nearly Joined Inter

Inter continue their pre-season preparations tomorrow by travelling to Mourinho’s homeland to take on Benfica in the Eusebio Cup.

Eusebio was a legendary forward who starred for Benfica and Portugal in the 1960s and 70s, and he is regarded by some as the greatest striker in the history of the game.

“Eusebio is the true king,” Mourinho told Inter Channel.

“He’s the only player in Portugal who played for Benfica but was also admired by fans of every other team, including Porto and Sporting.

“I have memories from when I was little and my father played in the Portuguese national team with Eusebio. My father was the first goalkeeper in Portugal to save a penalty from Eusebio. Eusebio was born on 25 January and I was born on 26 January. For me he's a special person.

“From a professional point of view, tomorrow will be an important chance for the team to improve, but from a personal perspective it will have special significance as it is a return to Portugal to play for a trophy dedicated to Eusebio.”

Mourinho also intriguingly revealed how Eusebio was close to joining Inter during his heyday in the 1960s, but in the end the move fell through.

"Eusebio played in the national team for many years and he's still close to the national team now,” ‘The Special One’ continued.

“When we decided to plan our summer fixtures with the president [Massimo Moratti] and decided to play against Benfica, he remembered the 1965 European Cup final in which Inter beat the Portuguese.

“The president also told me how at one point his father Angelo was close to bringing Eusebio to Inter.

“It will be very exciting for everyone, for us Portuguese who return home to face Benfica, and for the president who will certainly remember that beautiful time in Inter's history."

Eusebio scored a stunning 317 goals in just 301 games for Benfica between 1960 and 1975, winning 11 Portuguese championships, two European Cups, as well as winning the Ballon d’Or, among a host of other honours.

The 66-year-old, who was born in Mozambique, also starred for Portugal, hitting 41 goals in 64 games, and finishing top scorer at the 1966 World Cup as his side reached the semi finals.

Luca CapofrancoUgh...That makes me sick. Eusebio would never leave Benfica!

[O Maestro 10]

After the great performance and the two goals scored at the Olympic Games against China, brazilian offensive midfielder Thiago Neves is observed at least by four italian clubs: Palermo, Fiorentina, AS Roma and AC Milan. The Fluminense 23 year old, valued around 12,5 million euros, is also a target for Manchester United, Benfica, Werder Bremen and Hertha Berlin. Despite their declarations, Palermo and Roma have already contacted the brazilian club.

[O Maestro 10]

http://infordesporto.sapo.pt/Imagens/226260.jpg
Inter takes the cup from Benfica.

[O Maestro 10]

Quique Flores said Benfica is getting more competitive.

[O Maestro 10]

http://infordesporto.sapo.pt/Imagens/220726.jpg
Mourinho said he wanted the cup to stay with Benfica.

[O Maestro 10]

Adu said at Benfica he didn't play in his correct spot.

[O Maestro 10]

Mourinho with good words for Benfica

[O Maestro 10]

Report: SL Benfica 0 - 0 Inter Milan (p. 4:5)
Inter Milan won the Eusébio Cup on penalties after a stalemate in normal time where both teams had enough chances which they could not convert.

Cardozo had an early shot on goal as Benfica began the Eusébio Cup on the front foot. Pablo Aimar pressured Cambiasso in defence and left the ball for the Paraguayan to shoot just wide of Julio César's goal.

Visitors Inter Milan gradually settled and were showing glimpses of their elite experience as the Italian Champions. Figo had the chance to put the them ahead but shot straight at the figure of Quim, who held the ball comfortably.

At the quarter mark Cardozo hit the post with a left-foot volley after a great pass from Léo who received a ball from Ruben Amorim in the opposite flank.

Substitutions in the second half slowed the pace of the game as both teams looked to break the opposition down. Quim, who will now defend the Portugal goal, made key saves to deny the Italians a goal, and kept Benfica in the game until penalties.

Inter were the lucky side during the lottery shootout as Fellipe Bastos and Nélson failed to hit the target, whilst Ibrahimovic made a total hash of his.

Penalties: Pablo Aimar (1-0); Maxwell (1-1); Fellipe Bastos (x); Bolatelli (1-2); Reyes (2-2); Stankovic (2-3); Nuno Gomes (3-3); Ibrahimovic (x); David Luiz (4-3); Burdisso (4-4); Nélson (x); Cambiasso (4-5)

Note: Liga Sagres will begin next weekend as Benfica travel to newly promoted side Rio Ave looking for their first three pointer. Stay with PlanetBenfica along the week for all the preparations and breaking news.

Date: Friday 15th August 2008 - 19:45 GMT
Venue: Estádio da Luz, Lisboa
Referee: Bruno Paixão (Setúbal)
Assistant Referees: Rodrigo Pereira, Paulo Campos, Nuno Santos
Attendance: 54.017
Weather: Sunny/Clear ~27 ºC
TV: SIC (Channel 3)

BENFICA - Quim, Maxi Pereira ( Nélson 68'), Luisão (c), Katsouranis ( Binya 85'), Léo, Ruben Amorim (Balboa 45'), Carlos Martins ( David Luiz 67'), Yebda (Fellipe Bastos 80'), Pablo Aimar, Urreta ( Reyes 45') and Cardozo ( Nuno Gomes 68')
Subs: Moreira, Moretto, Edcarlos, David Luiz, Sidnei, Nélson, Jorge Ribeiro, Binya, Fellipe Bastos, Balboa, Miguel Vítor, Reyes, Nuno Gomes, Mantorras and Makukula
Coach: Quique Flores

INTER - Julio César, Maicon, Burdisso, Cambiasso, Maxwell, Zanetti (c) , Figo (Balotelli 75'), Stankovic, Muntari (Jimenez 61'), Mancini (Pelé 79) and Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Subs: Toldo, Orlandoni , Luis Jiminez, David Suazo, Pelé, Francesco Bolzoni, Davide Santon, Balotelli and Crespo
Coach: José Mourinho

Goals: -
Disciplinary action: Yellow card to Stankovic (23'), Léo (86'), Pelé (86')

Highlights: - Watch penalty highlights here

[O Maestro 10]

Post Match Views: Benfica 0 - 0 Inter Milan

The first Eusébio Cup tournament may have gone to the visitors, but Quique was satisfied with the display from his men and praised the team attitude and aggression.

"We are gradually improving and creating a team. We are much better than at the start of pre-season and much more competitive, we are an aggressive team in a positive way."

"The game was tightly fought individually and collectively, which was good for the team. We faced some difficulties against Inter as expected, but I'm satisfied with what the players provided. I hope we start the season playing with intelligence and competitiveness."

Eusébio

The honoured legend Eusébio felt the party atmosphere was the most important but would have liked to see the trophy stay home.

"The occasion was important. I would have liked to have seen Benfica win but it wasn't to be. Penalties are always down to luck."

Maxi Pereira

Uruguayan right-back believes Benfica are growing in confidence and have the conditions to play a great season.

"It was a good test, pity we didn't win the game. The team is gaining in confidence and hopefully the season goes well for us."

]David Luiz

The young centre-back returned from a long injury spell and was given just over 20 minutes to make his season debut. The Brazilian was happy to be playing without feeling any pain.

"It's always good to play without having any pain."

"As always our objective is to win. We know we made mistakes last season and we're now committed to learn from them so we can get stronger day by day."

[O Maestro 10]

http://www.record.pt/imgs/IMAGENS_110691.jpg
http://www.record.pt/imgs/IMAGENS_110692.jpg

[O Maestro 10]

Benfica's Di Maria scores the winning goal in the 105th minute, off a Lionel Messi assist, to help give Argentina a 2-1 olympic quarterfinal win against Holland. This sets up a mouth watering olympic semifinal on Tuesday against Brazil with Ronaldinho, Diego, Thiago Neves, Rafinha, etc.

[O Maestro 10]

Suazo is rumoured to be going to Benfica.