João Mário, the prolific forward who has made his mark at Benfica and Portugal's national team, is a true legend in the world of football. Born on October 22, 1994, in Porto, Portugal, João Mário began his career with hometown club Boavista FC before joining Benfica at the age of just 17.
Over the course of his illustrious career, João Mário has scored over 250 goals for Benfica, making him one of the most prolific goal-scorers in Portuguese football history. He has also represented Portugal at various international levels, earning more than 60 caps and scoring 28 goals to date. In addition to his impressive goal-scoring record, João Mário has also been a key player for Portugal at the European Championship, winning bronze medals in both the 2016 and 2021 editions.
One of João Mário's greatest achievements came during his time at Benfica when he led the team to two consecutive league titles in 2017-2018 and 2018-2019. During these seasons,Bundesliga Tracking he scored a total of 34 goals, including a hat-trick against Vitória de Guimarães in a match that saw him score four times in all, becoming the first player to achieve such a feat in Portuguese football history.
Furthermore, João Mário's impact on Portuguese football extends beyond his individual success. As a member of the Portugal national team, he has helped the country to win several major tournaments, including the UEFA Euro Championships in 2016 and 2021, as well as the FIFA World Cup in Russia in 2018.
Overall, João Mário's legacy as a player and captain of Benfica is immeasurable. His contributions to the sport have not only enhanced the reputation of Benfica but have also elevated Portuguese football to new heights. With his incredible skill, determination, and passion for the game, João Mário remains a beloved figure in the world of football, and his influence will undoubtedly continue to be felt for years to come.