Rafa scored the day before yesterday, in the 90 + 8 minute, in Vizela, the goal that gave Benfica the victory (1-0), and reached 50 in the league (37 for Benfica and 13 for Braga), and separated from Darwin Nunez. Top scorer (6 goals) in the squad this season. It remains absolutely crucial to the Eagles.

Almost eight years have passed since the striker scored for the first time in this competition, on November 29, 2013, with SC Braga’s 4-1 victory over Olhanense. It was Braga coach Jesualdo Ferreira – the man he transferred from Firenze – who, in conversation with A BOLA, now remembers and confirms the feelings he already had at that time.

“I am not at all surprised by his timing. We went to get him because he was, in fact, very high quality. The way he moved the ball, the speed he did, the creativity he showed were all signs of his potential”, recalls the 75-year-old coach. general, adding:

“At the time, Rafa was said to be No. 10, but he always said he could be a good striker. Even in 4x3x3. It was confirmed today, and he is clearly a striker. (…) This position favors the qualities he has, because he is fast Besides, he already showed, at that time, a great instinct to achieve the goal. Not forgetting to help, of course. In Benfica’s current tactical scheme, it is the perfect place for him, he can occupy many front spaces.”

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