“Top mentality player” “He ruins my playing patterns” – Di Maria calls Chelsea star a ‘Top mentality player’ after ruining his game plan in 4-1 win over Benfica
Argentina forward Angel Di Maria left the pitch in tears after Benfica was knocked out of the FIFA Club World Cup by Chelsea in Charlotte, USA, on Saturday.
It was his last match for the Portuguese side, where he spent five seasons over two spells. He also scored on his final appearance, equalising from the spot and forcing extra time.
Di Maria is one of the few players to have won significant silverware with Cristiano Ronaldo as well as Lionel Messi. He won the UEFA Champions League with Ronaldo in 2014 and two Copa Americas and the FIFA World Cup with Messi as part of the Argentine national team.
However, his stint at Benfica ended with a 1-4 defeat to Chelsea, after which he left the pitch in tears as Cucurella left him speechless.
Di Maria said after the match: “It’s so painful to lose such game after I scored the penalty and make it 1-1”
“Difficult to admit it but, the facts remain Chelsea got a Gem in Cucurella I was trying my best to get through him but he’s a top player with a great mentality”
“If he improves more I think he will be one of the best left back in the world”
“I cried after the match because I was unable to help the team more to go through the next round. Chelsea deserves to win the match after putting out such top mentality” Di Maria added