Benfica build for title surge
Monday, January 2, 2006
Article summary
SL Benfica have improved their hopes of regaining the Portuguese Liga with an impressive double swoop for winger Marco Ferreira and goalkeeper Moretto.
Article body
SL Benfica have improved their hopes of regaining the Portuguese Liga with an impressive double swoop for Moretto and Marco Ferreira.
Burgeoning reputation
Towering Brazilian goalkeeper Moretto joins in a €1m deal from Vitória FC after signing a five-and-a-half year contract with Ronald Koeman's side. It is the latest step in an astonishing period for the 27-year-old, who has rapidly developed a reputation as one of the best goalkeepers in Portugal since joining FC Felgueiras at the start of last season.
Cup success
He switched to Setúbal midway through the campaign and ended the season with victory against Benfica in the Portuguese Cup final. Moretto has conceded just five goals in 16 games this term, leading to his move to the UEFA Champions League hopefuls, alongside Marco Ferreira, who joins from FC Porto. The 27-year-old winger, who has been on loan at FC Penafiel, has signed a three-year-contract, and Koeman will hope he and Moretto can help the side close the six-point gap to Porto atop the league standings.
