This Day in History: 2023-01-05

Nr. 376

BENFICA AND REAL MADRID VIE FOR EUROPEAN GLORY (1962)

The Portuguese champions Benfica successfully defended their European crown with victory over Real Madrid in a memorable final on 2 May in Amsterdam. Bela Guttmann’s side played nine of the team who won the 1961 final against Barcelona, but they found themselves two goals behind, both scored by Ferenc Puskas, after 23 minutes. Benfica drew level with goals from Jose Aguas and Domiciano Cavem, only for Puskas to complete his hat-trick before half-time. As Madrid tired, the second half was dominated by the Portuguese. Mario Coluna made it 3-3 before Eusebio showed his brilliance with two goals to take the trophy back to Lisbon.

Benfica’s Germano shepherds the ball back to his goal keeper Pereira to frustrate the Real Madrid attack in a pulsating European Cup final.