Loftus-Cheek and Di María Shine in Benfica vs. Milan Clash
Milan and Benfica Battle to a Draw
Rubén Loftus-Cheek and Ángel Di María each netted braces as AC Milan and SL Benfica played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final clash at Estádio da Luz on Thursday.
The visitors took the lead through Loftus-Cheek's stunning long-range strike in the 20th minute. The England international doubled Milan's advantage with a clinical finish just before the hour mark.
However, Benfica showed their resilience and fought back with two goals from Di María. The Argentine winger pulled one back with a superb free-kick in the 65th minute and leveled the scores with a header from close range in stoppage time.
Benfica's Unbeaten Home Record Remains Intact
Despite Benfica's comeback, they were unable to extend their impressive unbeaten home record in the Europa League. The Portuguese giants had not lost a match at home in the competition in 28 previous games, winning 21 and drawing seven.
The last time Benfica failed to score at home in the Europa League was in a 0-0 draw with Galatasaray in February 2019.
Eusebio's Legacy in European Football
The match at Estádio da Luz was played on the 61st anniversary of Eusébio da Silva Ferreira's famous goal in the 1963 European Cup final against AC Milan at Wembley Stadium. Eusebio's iconic strike helped Benfica win their second European Cup title.
The Portuguese legend is considered one of the greatest players of all time and his goal against Milan remains one of the most iconic moments in European football history.
Next Match: Europa League Quarter-Final 2nd Leg
The second leg of the Europa League quarter-final between Benfica and Milan will take place at the San Siro on Thursday, April 18. The winners of the tie will advance to the semi-finals.
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