Filip Benković – Dinamo Zagreb (14/09/2016)

Here is a magnificent collector's item from the sumptuous evenings of the Champions League. This match-worn jersey was donned by the great Croatian international central defender Filip Benković during the first group stage match pitting Olympique Lyonnais against Dynamo Zagreb at Parc OL.

Match Context: OL Kicks Off European Campaign with a Bang

For this opening match of Group H (2016-2017 season), Bruno Génésio's Lyon team inaugurated their brand new stadium in the Champions League and immediately imposed a relentless pace. Corentin Tolisso opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a powerful header under the crossbar, electrifying the Rhone public. After halftime, "Les Gones" accelerated and definitively stifled the hopes of the Croatian team. Midfielder Jordan Ferri doubled the lead with a beautiful chipped ball (49th minute), before the agile Maxwel Cornet completed the attacking display after a superb collective move (57th minute). Despite a few defiant reactions from Zagreb, Olympique Lyonnais perfectly managed the end of the match and won with brilliance and authority (3-0).

Filip Benković: The Gem and Rock of the Croatian Defense

A modern central defender, with an imposing physique, excellent timing in aerial duels, and great technical assurance in ball distribution, Filip Benković was one of the greatest talents developed at Dynamo Zagreb before his big move to England. Starting in the heart of the defense at only 19 years old to face the Lyon armada, the young international played a match full of dedication, multiplying tackles and interventions in his own box under constant pressure from the local attackers. Worn under the floodlights of the prestigious European stage, his official jersey features the Champions League patches and all professional flocking. A very nice Champions League collector's item.