Portuguese hero Rui Costa said an emotional farewell on Sunday, ending his playing career at 36 in SL Benfica's 3-0 win at home against Vitória FC.

"It is over," said Rui Costa after the game. "In the midst of my sadness about retiring, I am overjoyed that it ended this way. Thank you all." Made captain for the day, Rui Costa gave the No10 shirt he wore in his final game to his father, and added: "It was very emotional. These people gave me everything. I always tried to give something back and I will continue to do that."

A crowd of 50,000 were in strong voice as the midfielder made his final professional appearance, with Rui Costa receiving a rapturous reception from when he appeared to do his pre-match warm-up to the moment he was substituted near the end of the game. A short ceremony, set up by Benfica and the local authorities to celebrate his career, also received a tumultuous response.