This summer, Angel Di Maria returned to Benfica, thirteen years after his departure, and the Argentine is already proving to be indispensable for his club. In the Portuguese Super Cup this Thursday evening, he scored a crucial goal in his team’s victory (2-0) against rival Porto.
The 2022 World Cup champion broke the deadlock in the second half. Positioned just outside the penalty area, the former PSG player unleashed a beautifully curled shot that found the back of the net in the near post, even though goalkeeper Diogo Costa seemed to be on the trajectory (61st minute). A few minutes later, Croatian Peter Musa (68th minute) secured a definitive advantage for his team.
Thanks to his exceptional performance, Angel Di Maria helped Benfica secure their first trophy of the season. The Argentine player was also named the man of the match, marking a dream return to the club where he started his European career (2007-2010).
“I had already imagined this, the joy of winning a title that I was missing with Benfica. I achieved it today in my first match. To give this joy to the supporters who gave us strength in a match that wasn’t easy. We played a lot in the first half, and in the second half, we made the difference because we have players of very high quality,” said the Argentine international after the match, as reported by RMC Sport.
He added, “I never doubted my return to Benfica; it was always something I had in mind since the day I left. I was waiting for the right moment, and it finally arrived. I made those who came to welcome me happy. I am very happy here.” Following his departure from Paris last summer, Di Maria spent a season at Juventus before signing a one-year contract with the Lisbon-based club, with an option for an additional season.
