BENFICA star Joao Neves broke down in tears at the Estadio da Luz tonight following a heartfelt tribute from his supporters.
After a protracted fight with cancer, the 19-year-old’s mother passed away last week, and the midfield player was overcome with grief the moment the final whistle went.
At the conclusion of the match, the Benfica supporters showed their support for Neves by singing his name.
And the young midfield player started crying because of his supporters’ devotion.
Benfica’s 0-0 draw with Toulouse that evening was sufficient for them to move on to the next round.
Despite just being 19 years old, Neves has made 38 appearances for Benfica this season across all competitions.
Portugal has already given him three caps.
In the summer and January, Neves—a tough, deep-lying midfielder in the style of Rodri—was connected to a lucrative transfer to the Premier League.
Though Kobbie Mainoo’s rise to the role may have cooled United’s interest in the midfielder, they were still interested in him last summer.
Arsenal is also interested in him as they try to find a replacement for Thomas Partey come summertime.
At the age of just 18, Neves was thrown into the Benfica first team last year to take the place of Enzo Fernandez, who left for Chelsea in a £107 million move.
Benfica was participating in the Europa League play-offs after being eliminated from the Champions League this season.
