Palhinha on his way to the Luz? Bad memories for Benfica | OneFootball

The name of João Palhinha continues to heat up Benfica’s transfer market, but there is an episode from the past that comes back into focus whenever the Portuguese international is linked with the Estádio da Luz. It is a moment that left a mark on Benfica supporters and had a direct influence on one of the most debated seasons of recent years.

On 15 February 2020, while playing for Braga, Palhinha was the protagonist of a bitter night for Benfica fans. At the Estádio da Luz, the midfielder scored the game’s only goal and secured a 1-0 win for the Minho side. The move came from a set piece and ended with a precise header from the player, who beat Benfica’s defence and completely silenced the stadium.

The match had an even greater impact because it came at a decisive stage of the league campaign. Benfica’s defeat in the 21st round allowed Porto to close in at the top and ended up being one of the most significant moments in that season’s title race. At the time, Braga were managed by Ruben Amorim, who would leave the Pedreira shortly afterwards.

Someone who remembers that moment well is Rui Fonte, a former Benfica player (2012-2016) and Palhinha’s teammate at Braga. The former striker admitted that the win was “a huge joy”, he said in comments to newspaper A Bola.

is seen as an important factor in this possible deal many fans still remember that precise header which, a few years ago, turned a night of hope into a huge disappointment at the Luz.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.