After a storied career spanning nearly two decades in Europe, Argentine football legend Ángel Di María bid an emotional goodbye to Benfica in his final match for the club. His last domestic appearance came on May 25, 2025, in the Taça de Portugal Final, where Benfica suffered a 3-1 extra-time defeat to Sporting CP. Di María entered the match in the 103rd minute and, after the final whistle, was seen in tears on the pitch, comforted by both teammates and opponents in a powerful display of sportsmanship. The match symbolized the end of an era at Benfica, with fans and the football community celebrating his contributions and passion for the club.
His final European appearance for Benfica came in the FIFA Club World Cup round of 16 against Chelsea on June 28, 2025. Despite a dramatic performance—where he scored a stoppage-time penalty to force extra time—Benfica ultimately lost 4-1. Di María was visibly emotional at the final whistle, with teammates and even rival players consoling him. On his way to the dressing room, he raised his hand to the fans, bidding farewell to European football before his return to his boyhood club, Rosario Central.
Ángel Di María’s Dual Legacy at Benfica
Di María’s return to Benfica in 2023 marked the reunion of one of the club’s most beloved talents, but his impact in both spells has cemented a unique legacy in Lisbon. Across his two stints, 2007–2010 and 2023–2025, the Argentine winger has left an indelible mark on the club’s history.
First Spell (2007-2010): The Breakthrough Star
Key Contributions: Di María played a pivotal role in Benfica’s 2009–10 Primeira Liga triumph, their first league title in five years, and helped secure two Taça da Liga titles.
European Impact: In the 2009–10 Europa League, he provided a hat-trick of assists in a 5–0 demolition of Everton, a record defeat for an English side in European competition.
Individual Accolades: He finished the 2009–10 season as the league’s top assister with 11 assists and was named Player of the Month in April.
Notable Moments: Scored his first Benfica hat-trick in a 4–0 win over Leixões and was hailed as “Magic Tri María” by Portuguese media.
Second Spell (2023-2025): The Veteran Leader
Instant Impact: On his second debut, Di María scored the opening goal in Benfica’s 2–0 Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira victory over Porto.
Consistent Performances: In his first four league games back, he contributed to five goals (two assists, three goals), quickly becoming a fan favorite once again.
European Milestone: Scored his first Champions League goal for Benfica directly from a corner in a crucial 3–1 win over Red Bull Salzburg, securing Europa League qualification.
Club World Cup: Played a key role in Benfica’s 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign, helping the team advance and shining in crucial moments.
Also Read: Most assists in Europe’s top 5 leagues
Seasonal Stats: Across his two most recent seasons, Di María tallied 17 league goals and 10 assists, with additional contributions in domestic and European cups.
By the Numbers (Both Spells)
- Total Appearances: 216
- Total Goals: 50
- Trophies: Multiple league titles, domestic cups, and a Supertaça
Legacy: Di María is remembered not only for his technical brilliance and creativity but also for his leadership and ability to deliver in big matches across two distinct eras.
This approach emphasizes the depth of his influence, the rarity of such a dual legacy, and the fresh narratives from his recent achievements, especially in the Club World Cup.
