In January 2011, as part of a deal that saw David Luiz move to Chelsea, Matic left for Benfica. In Portugal, Matic transformed into a formidable no.6. Under the guidance of manager Jorge Jesus, he was converted from a playmaker, and he was awarded the Primeira Liga Player of the Year for his performances during the 2012/13 season, also winning the Taca da Liga and the Primeira Liga with the Eagles.
"It will be a privilege to play against him. It is a historic moment for Benfica and we are motivated to be part of it and to be in this game. But the match starts 0-0 and we want to show our best version. The coach, the players... This is the only way we can bring something from this game."
Fenerbahce were unable to capitalise on Florentino's second-half red card as they played out a goalless draw with Benfica in the first leg of their Champions League play-off. Florentino was dismissed in the 71st minute for an accumulation of two yellow cards in the space of 138 seconds, but Benfica held firm in his absence in Istanbul. It leaves the tie finely poised heading into the second leg, which takes place next Wednesday in Lisbon.
