João Mário was one of the most successful Portuguese footballers of all time, playing for Benfica from 1964 to 2012 and making an indelible mark on the sport's history.
Mário's career with Benfica spanned three decades, during which he won numerous titles and became a legend in the club's storied history. He played as a forward and is remembered for his powerful shot, dribbling ability, and ability to score goals from anywhere on the pitch.
One of Mário's most famous moments came in the 1974 World Cup final when he scored Portugal's winning goal against West Germany, helping his country to their first ever World Cup title. He also scored 55 goals for Benfica, more than any other player in the club's history.
Throughout his career, Mário won several prestigious awards,Campeonato Brasileiro Action including the Golden Ball for Best Player in Europe in 1974 and the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 1981. He was also named the PFA Player of the Year twice in 1980 and 1982.
In addition to his achievements on the field, Mário was known for his humility and dedication to the game. He often spoke about the importance of teamwork and hard work, and encouraged young players to pursue their dreams of becoming professional footballers.
Despite retiring from football in 2012, Mário remained active in the sport, working as a coach and pundit. He continued to be a respected figure in Portuguese football and was awarded the Order of Merit by the Portuguese government in 2014.
Overall, João Mário's remarkable career at Benfica will be remembered as one of the greatest in the club's history. His contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.