Benfica celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Estadio da Luz with the opening of the “Wall of Champions”

This Wednesday, the Estádio da Luz celebrates its 20th anniversary, and Benfica marked the date with the unveiling of a “mural of champions”, which pays tribute to the 20 best footballers who played in this stadium for the Reds, after a vote by the club’s members. .

Goalkeepers Oblak and Ederson, defenders Andre Almeida, Nelson Semedo, Luisao, Garay, Ruben Dias, Otamendi and Grimaldo, midfielders Rui Costa and Aimar, forwards Simão Sabrosa, Di Maria, Salvio, Gaitan and Rafa, as well as forwards Nuno Gomez, Cardoso, Jonas. and Joao Felix were the 20 players chosen by fans to appear on the wall.

Of these, 10 were present at the ceremony, which took place in the rain and in which President Rui Costa, one of those honored, unveiled the fabric covering the mural, with the help of former footballers Andre Almeida, Luizana, Simão Sabrosa. , Gaitan, Nuno Gomez, Cardoso and Jonas, as well as current Benfica athletes Di Maria and Rafa.

Also noteworthy is the absence of the current captain of the Lisbon team, the Argentinean Otamendi, who did not accompany his team-mates to celebrate the anniversary of the Estadio da Luz stadium, a day after the defeat to Real Sociedad (1:0). Champions League.

“The five years I lived here were the happiest of my career, both on and off the field. When the invitation to be here came, it was a very pleasant surprise. I thank everyone who voted and for the opportunity to be a part of this 20 great athletes. This is a great happiness,” former Brazilian striker Jonas told reporters after the event.

Jonas, 39, represented the Eagles for five seasons between 2014/15 and 2018/19, scoring 137 goals in 183 games played and admitted he misses that performance.

“I always follow Benfica, but when I come here I miss it even more. I was able to attend yesterday’s game. [terça-feira]. “I haven’t watched a single game since the stoppage and I miss even more the atmosphere at Estádio da Luz, which is incredible and unique,” ​​he said.

Former Portugal international Nuno Gomes, 47, represented Benfica on two different occasions – from 1997/98 to 1999/00 and from 2002/03 to 2010/11 – and scored a total of 166 goals in 399 matches, allowing him to join Benfica. top 10 historical markers.

“[Esta homenagem] This means that time flies and I am getting old. It seems like it was yesterday. 20 years of good memories because we try to forget the bad ones faster. I have very good memories of the magnificent stadium, which means a lot to Benfica fans,” emphasized the former striker of the “red” team.

For his part, the Paraguayan Oscar Cardoso, who at 40 years of age still plays for Libertad in his country, thanked President Rui Costa, the directors of Benfica and the fans for the tribute, having never thought about reaching the 172-goal mark in 293 matches. .

“I have a lot of memories. I’ve been through a lot here at the Estádio da Luz, I’ve scored a lot of important goals. This memory is a source of pride for me and my family. I thank the fans for all their love. This shows that I did it. my work is good,” rejoiced.

Also Andre Almeida, who said goodbye to Benfica in his final season after 12 years at the Luz club, showed himself “privileged” to be included in this group.

“I remember my time with great pride and wonderful feelings. These were amazing and incredible years spent in this stadium and beyond, with our fans. I feel privileged and very proud of this recognition,” the defender thanked.

After the grand opening of the mural, guests went to the Estádio da Luz stadium, where the club’s anthem was played and a festive cake was cut.