When the reds entered the Luz pitch knew that the direct rivals had already lost points on their games. The teams of SC Braga and FC Porto had only obtained one point each, this because they both had draws on the games they disputed, against Vitória SC away and Olhanense at home, respectively. The public, near 43000 spectators, felling that our team, the reds, could gain an important, three point distances from the second classified on the Liga Sagres, and eleven from the third, went to Luz Stadium helping the team to win this tuff game.
SL Benfica entered the game with a strong wish of winning the game and scored two early goals. The first goal was obtained, on the twelve minute, by Rúben Amorim. A precious insistence of Cardozo that after a brilliant cross from Di Maria, passed the ball to Amorim. The second goal was scored by “El Conejo”, Saviola. Benfica tried to reach the third goals and almost got it, but the chances were missed. Paços with a good team in Luz had fewer chances but also scored. On the 43’ William reduced scoring the Paços de Ferreira goal.
Julio Coelho the Paços de Ferreira goalkeeper was in evidence on the second half making some notable defences. Also in evidence on Paços team were Candeias and Maykon, fortunately for us Quim, the eagles keeper was in good plan. Quim was helped also by 70’ positive minutes of Airton who played in the place of J. Garcia, in front of Luizão, David Luiz, Maxi Pereira and Fábio Coentrão. Ulisses Morais players tried everything to change things but, Cardozo (58’) scored the third goal of the team and made the fans sing on Luz. Some minutes to show their value had Filipe Menezes, Sidnei and César Peixoto who entered the game on the last twenty minutes.
Airton Ribeiro Santos (1990-02-21)
Airton, on a game (9-7-2oo8) of CR Flamengo against Atlético Mineiro made his first appearance on the Brazilian championship, when the coach Joel Santana called him from the bench.
He became Brazilian Champion with his mates on the Clube de Regatas do Flamengo team, before Benfica opened him the “doors” of Europe, signing with him a five years contract in the last winter market.
This young player may have a brilliant future ahead of him. He his strong physically and tall, but that characteristics don’t turn him slower and that’s important to help the team defending. He wins many balls turning the defence much more solid. He now needs time to meet better his companions and work well on the opportunities given to him by the actual Benfica’s coach Jorge Jesus, to progress rapidly but with his feet firmly on the ground, on this new European experience.
On this “gamesweek”, Benfica reached an important position on the top of the Portuguese League. Let’s believe on Jorge Jesus arguments and on the player’s abilities to win this Championship.
