With heavy hearts, Sport Lisboa e Benfica bids farewell to Minervino Pietra, who has passed away at the age of 70. He was not just a man, but a living embodiment of our club’s spirit, with a deep-rooted connection and unwavering dedication to Benfica. Whether on the field or behind the scenes, he exemplified true Benficaism. Today, we mourn the loss of a legend.
Who was Minervino Pietra?
For over half a century, Minervino Pietra dedicated his life to Benfica. He wore multiple hats during his journey – from being a player to serving as an analyst and eventually becoming a resident coach for various technical teams within the club’s professional soccer squad. His commitment and passion for Benfica knew no bounds, leaving an indelible mark on our beloved club’s history.
Minervino Pietra was not just an outstanding sportsman. He was a beacon of inspiration both on and off the field. From his days as a player for Benfica and the national team to his role as a coach, he consistently led by example, instilling a sense of mystique and passion in every player he encountered, especially the youngsters.
His journey with Benfica began in 1976 and lasted until 2022, a testament to his unwavering loyalty and love for the club. Throughout his tenure, he was influenced by esteemed coaches such as John Mortimore, Mário Wilson, Lajos Baroti, and Sven-Göran Eriksson. His wealth of experience as an elite footballer undoubtedly shaped his approach as a coach, leaving an enduring legacy within the Benfica community.
A Career:
Hailing from Lisbon, Pietra kicked off his professional career with the local club C.F. Os Belenenses. Over five fruitful years in the Primeira Liga, he made nearly 150 appearances for the first team, showcasing his defensive prowess and even notching nine goals along the way.
In 1976, at the age of 22, Pietra made the move to S.L. Benfica, where he would etch his name into the annals of the club’s history until his retirement. His tenure with Benfica was nothing short of illustrious. As a vital cog in the defensive lineup, he played a pivotal role in securing league titles for the club in 1977, 1981, 1983, and 1984, along with clinching five Taça de Portugal trophies.
Pietra’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to Benfica; he also left his mark on the international stage, earning 28 caps for Portugal. His journey began on November 14, 1973, in a memorable 1-1 draw against Northern Ireland during the 1974 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
To the family of Minervino Pietra, Sport Lisboa e Benfica extends its heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.
