One-Minute Miracle: Benfica’s New Prodigy Sparks a Mourinho-Real Madrid Moment
26 January 2026
One-Minute Wonder Crowns Benfica’s New Academy Gem
In a pivotal league game, 17-year-old Anisio Cabral needed only 60 seconds to find the net as Benfica swept aside Estrela Amadora 4-0.
The victory was welcomed by a jubilant Benfica camp, with coach Jose Mourinho marking the win as they turn their attention to Real Madrid in the final round of the UEFA Champions League group stage.
AS highlighted Cabral’s breakout form at the Under-17 World Cup in November, where he shone and collected the Silver Boot, underscoring the potential that has Benfica’s supporters hopeful.
The teenager, who has long drawn Mourinho’s attention, followed up his youth-world success with a goal after more than two months, a strike that showcased sharp finishing inside the box.
Benfica now faces a daunting task to stay alive in Europe: going into the last game with six points, outside the qualification spots, needing a win over Real Madrid while hoping for favourable results elsewhere.
Despite questions over whether Cabral will start, there is a belief he could feature briefly against Alvaro Arbeloa’s side as Mourinho continues to trust his prodigious talent.
In short, Benfica has unearthed a bright prospect, and Mourinho’s faith in youth looks set to pay off once again.
Punchline 1: If football ran on time, Cabral’s goal would be speed dial—blink and you miss a legend in the making.
Punchline 2: Mourinho just updated his scouting app: “Install Cabral 1.0—now with instant impact”.
