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Jose de La Cruz BenitezFormer Paraguayan footballer, goalkeeper
Date of Birth: 03.05.1952
Country:  Paraguay |
Content:
- del Rosario Benítez: Legendary Paraguayan Footballer
- Star Status at Internacional and Injury Setback
- Recovery and Career Resumption
- Legacy and Personal Life
del Rosario Benítez: Legendary Paraguayan Footballer
Early Career and Success with OlimpiaDel Rosario Benítez, a renowned Paraguayan goalkeeper, embarked on his football journey with Olimpia's youth squad. His exceptional performances earned him a place in Paraguay's Under-20 team, leading them to victory at the South American Youth Championship in 1971. That same year, he made his senior debut for Olimpia.
Over the next six years with the "Black and Whites," Benítez established himself as a key player, helping Olimpia secure three Paraguayan league titles. His outstanding goalkeeping abilities caught the attention of the Paraguayan national team, and he earned his one and only cap in a 1978 World Cup qualifier against Brazil, playing alongside renowned players like Romerito.
Star Status at Internacional and Injury Setback
In 1978, Brazilian club Internacional acquired Benítez, who initially played for Palmeiras before making his mark as Internacional's first-choice goalkeeper from 1979 onwards. He immediately made an impact, winning the Brazilian championship with the "Colorado" in his first year.
Benítez's exceptional season in 1981 earned him a place in the Brazilian League Team of the Year and the coveted Bola de Prata (Silver Ball) award. However, his promising career was tragically cut short on December 4, 1983, during a friendly match when an opponent's kick to his head left him paralyzed.
Recovery and Career Resumption
Despite the life-altering injury, Benítez's indomitable spirit and the expertise of Dr. Paulo Rabelo enabled him to regain his health. While his playing career was over, he remained involved in football as Internacional's goalkeeping coach for seven years, mentoring future World Cup champion Claudio Taffarel.
Benítez continued his coaching roles with several clubs in the state of Rio Grande do Sul before transitioning into sports business and player representation from 1994 to 2005. His influence facilitated the careers of many Paraguayan athletes in Brazil, including legendary defender Carlos Gamarra.
Legacy and Personal Life
Today, del Rosario Benítez presides over an amateur football team in northern Porto Alegre. He has been married to his Brazilian wife, Ivana, since the late 1970s. Benítez's exceptional talent and resilience have made him an enduring figure in the annals of South American football.
