Article
11 July 2012
Realmadrid.com / Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell
Benfica and Real Madrid will play a friendly match on 27 July at Da Luz Stadium in Lisbon in the fifth edition of the Eusebio Cup. Director of Institutional Relations Emilio BUtrgaueño attended the presentation of the match.
"We hope the 27 July match has a party atmosphere to pay tribute to one of the best players in football history. It is an honour for Real Madrid to participate in the match. We have an excellent relationship with Benfica, who are an historic side; this will only strengthen it even more."
"We are deeply sorry about Eusebio's illness and we hope he recovers as quickly as possible. I think he represents for Benfica what Alfredo di Stefano represents for us. He played in a glorious time during the 1960s and was the leader of a wonderful team. He has many values and a spirit of self-improvement that he's instilled in future generations."
"I hope Real Madrid and Benfica come face to face in a final in the near future, just like we did in 1962; I just hope the score is different this time! We are very grateful to Benfica for their hospitality; they are excellent hosts. "
"Cristiano Ronaldo scored 46 goals in 38 games last season, which is more than one strike per match on average. We are getting used to these numbers, but those of us who were players know how difficult it was to score in one of three games. It is incredible to score in every game. Portuguese fans should be proud of Cristiano. He is an exemplary professional."