Portuguese Primeira Liga Round 8 rescheduled match saw Benfica secure a 2-0 away victory over Nacional Madeira, extending their unbeaten streak to 13 games!
Benfica 2-0 Nacional Maderia
In this match, 36-year-old Argentine superstar Ángel Di María delivered a stellar performance, scoring twice within 15 minutes to lead his team to victory.
Since rejoining Benfica last season, Di María has played 48 matches across all competitions, contributing 17 goals and 13 assists, showcasing his enduring form.
Di María dominates the game!
His impressive performances earned him a one-year contract extension with the club.
Despite advancing in age, Di María’s technical skills, sharp footballing intelligence, and vast experience have made him a key player for Benfica on numerous occasions.
Di María’s experience is treasure for Benfica
For instance, in the UEFA Champions League clash against Monaco last month, he provided two assists in just four minutes, helping Benfica complete a stunning 3-2 comeback win.
In this match, Benfica dominated the first half but failed to break the deadlock.
It wasn’t until the 58th minute in the second half that Di María’s shot from the left side of the box struck a defender’s arm, earning a penalty. He confidently converted it to put Benfica 1-0 ahead.
Di Maria scored the opening goal!
In the 75th minute, Di María stepped up again, capitalizing on a defensive error in the box and unleashing a powerful shot into the net to double Benfica’s lead.
Di Maria scores with his left foot!
Ultimately, Benfica rode Di María’s brace to a comfortable 2-0 victory, maintaining their unbeaten streak since the opening-round defeat.
They now have 35 points, just one behind league leaders Sporting CP, reigniting hopes of overtaking them.
Post-match statistics showed Di María was on the pitch for 87 minutes, making four shots with two on target, scoring twice.
Player of the Match after the game!
He also delivered three key passes and completed 29 accurate passes, earning a 9.0 match rating, the highest on the pitch, and the Player of the Match award.
So far this season, Di María has made 21 appearances for Benfica across all competitions, scoring 11 goals to become the team’s top scorer.
Benfica’s guardian angel!
With an additional five assists, he has directly contributed to 16 goals, reaffirming his status as Benfica’s indispensable attacking force.
Di María Proves Age is Just a Number with MVP Performance
At 36 years old, Ángel Di María continues to defy expectations, delivering yet another masterclass to guide Benfica to victory. His two-goal performance within 15 minutes not only secured the win but also reaffirmed his status as the club’s most reliable attacking force.
With 11 goals and 5 assists this season, Di María remains Benfica’s top scorer, proving that experience and skill can outshine youthful energy. As Benfica closes in on league leaders Sporting CP, Di María’s form will be crucial in the title race, and performances like this show he still has plenty left to offer at the highest level.
