The Barcelona and Benfica match that changed history forever!

– wrote the journalist Roberto Palomar on match memories Benfica and Barcelona, ​​which changed football history to FrD.

On May 31, 1961, the Wankdorf Stadium in Bern witnessed one of the most influential finals in the history of European football. Barcelona, ​​which knocked out defending champion Real Madrid, faced off against Benfica, an emerging team that was beginning to build its legend. It was Barça’s first European final, but what seemed to be the beginning of a golden era turned into a long-term nightmare

Barcelona entered the match as strong favourites, thanks to their attacking line-up led by Kubala, Kocsis, Tzibor, Evaristo, and Luisito Suarez.

Cochise scored in the 20th minute, but unexpected errors from goalkeeper Ramalets turned things around for Benfica, as he misjudged a long ball that allowed Aguas to equalize, and then a reflex of light caused a bizarre second goal after hitting the post.

In the second half, Benfica increased their lead with a third goal through a powerful shot from Colonna, and although Barcelona reduced the score to 3-2 through Tzibor, their repeated attempts hit the crossbar four times, leaving the players and fans frustrated.

This match was the beginning of Benfica’s European legend and the end of a bright phase for Barcelona, ​​as Luis Suarez left for Inter Milan, Kubala and Ramalets retired, and the club entered a long dark period.