Benfica’s Dramatic Escape Rekindles an Old Legend
Benfica survived the Champions League league phase in the most dramatic fashion. Anatoliy Trubin scored a last‑minute header to seal a 4-2 win over Real Madrid, keeping the Portuguese giants alive on goal difference. That goal denied Madrid direct qualification and set up a rematch in the knockout playoffs.
Their return to Lisbon brings back an old story. While Madrid fear another chaotic night, many believe Benfica carry a far heavier burden — the long‑standing curse of Béla Guttmann.
Portugal’s Most Decorated Club Still Chases European Glory
Benfica remain Portugal’s most successful club with 31 league titles. Porto follow with 30, and Sporting with 21. Benfica also became the first Portuguese side to conquer Europe, winning the European Cup in 1961 and 1962. Those victories placed them among the continent’s elite.
However, their European success ended abruptly. Porto later lifted two Champions League titles and two Europa League trophies, while Sporting claimed the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1963. Benfica watched their rivals celebrate while their own drought deepened.
What Is the Curse of Béla Guttmann?
Hungarian coach Béla Guttmann transformed Benfica after taking charge in 1959. He promoted Eusébio, reshaped the squad, and built a team capable of beating Europe’s best.
Benfica defeated Barcelona 3-2 in the 1961 European Cup final. One year later, they beat Real Madrid 5-3 to defend their crown. After those triumphs, Guttmann asked for a pay rise. The club refused. According to legend, he responded with a chilling declaration:
“Not in a hundred years from now will Benfica ever be European champion.” He left the club soon after and joined Peñarol.
Eight Finals, Eight Defeats: The Curse in Numbers
Since Guttmann’s departure, Benfica reached eight European finals — and lost all eight. Their defeats came against:
- AC Milan (twice)
- Inter Milan
- Manchester United
- PSV Eindhoven
- Anderlecht
- Chelsea
- Sevilla (on penalties in 2014)
Supporters still believe the curse explains their heartbreak on the biggest stage.
Can Trubin’s Miracle Moment Break the Curse?
Real Madrid now stand between Benfica and another deep Champions League run. Few expect a miracle, yet Trubin’s last‑second header reminded the world that football never follows a script.
Some fans even wonder whether that goal marked the moment the curse finally cracked.
