Rafael Alexandre Fernandes Ferreira da Silva

Rafa, whose full name is Rafael Alexandre Fernandes Ferreira da Silva, is a Portuguese attacking midfielder born in Forte da Casa on 17 May 1993. He developed at Povoense and Alverca before moving to Feirense, where he made his professional debut in 2012. His performances earned a 2013 transfer to SC Braga, and he helped the club win the 2016 Taça de Portugal. Later that year, Rafa joined Benfica, becoming an important attacking player during eight seasons in Lisbon and winning three Primeira Liga titles. Primarily right-footed, he progressed from a wide role into a second-striker or attacking-midfield position, using acceleration, close control and forward runs between defensive lines. Rafa represented Portugal and was part of the squads that won UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. He retired from international football in 2022, and his club career also included Beşiktaş before his return to Benfica.