André Almeida – SL Benfica (10/23/2019)

Here is a collector's item of prestigious European value, from the magical Champions League evenings. This match issued (prepared for the match) jersey was allocated to the strong and loyal Portuguese international defender André Almeida during the group stage clash between SL Benfica and Olympique Lyonnais in the scorching cauldron of the Estádio da Luz.

Match Context: The Eagles Snatch Victory with a Late Stroke of Genius

For this third matchday of Group G of the Champions League (2019-2020 season), Bruno Lage's Lisbon team absolutely had to win against Lyon. Benfica struck early through Rafa Silva (4th minute), but OL responded in the second half and equalized through Memphis Depay (70th minute), sending a chill through the Lisbon stands. The match turned into madness in the 86th minute: after a completely misplayed clearance by Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes, Pizzi inherited the ball and immediately fired a long-range shot without control that ended up in the empty net. Driven by an entire nation, the Eagles held on until the final whistle and secured a crucial victory on the European stage (2-1).

André Almeida: The Captain and Exemplary Servant of Benfica

A right-back of exemplary consistency, endowed with an innate tactical understanding, great defensive rigor, and an unwavering love for the Eagles' jersey, André Almeida was one of the indispensable captains and leaders in the Lisbon dressing room. Injured shortly before this major European encounter, the Portuguese warrior had to withdraw and watch his team's triumph from the stands. His official kit therefore did not grace the pitch of the Luz but was carefully prepared, personalized, and flocked in the Encarnados' dressing room. Featuring the prestigious official Champions League patches as well as all the professional markings of the era, this rare piece is an essential European collector's item.