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Julio Cesar BenitezUruguayan footballer, defender
Date of Birth: 01.10.1940
Country:  Uruguay |
Content:
Early Career and Move to Spain
Luis Benito Reig was a Uruguayan football player who played as a defender. He began his career at the age of 16 with Racing Montevideo before moving to Spain in 1959 to join Real Valladolid. A year later, he transferred to Real Zaragoza.
Triumphs with Barcelona
In August 1961, Benito signed for Barcelona, where he initially played in various positions, including as a forward, but eventually settled as a central defender. With Barcelona, Benito lifted the Copa del Rey in 1963 and the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1966.
Tragic End
On April 6, 1968, just three days before a scheduled match against Real Madrid at Camp Nou, Benito tragically passed away due to gastroenteritis caused by spoiled seafood. His funeral, held at the cemetery near Camp Nou, was attended by an estimated 150,000 people. Benito's last words, "Gather together, friends, and beat Madrid 2-0!" resonate to this day.
Legacy and Tribute
The match against Madrid was postponed for two days by the Spanish Football Federation and ended in a 1-1 draw. However, on July 11, 1968, Barcelona defeated Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final, dedicating the victory to Benito. The trophy was inscribed with his name as a tribute to his memory.
