Nélson Most Appearances Record

Lore & Background

Semedo began his career at Sintrense before joining Benfica in 2012. After spending a season on loan at Fátima, he initially appeared for Benfica B before making his first-team debut in 2015 and going on to win back-to-back Primeira Liga titles, among other honours. In July 2017, he signed with Barcelona, winning La Liga in his first two seasons of a three-year stay. In September 2020, Semedo moved to Wolverhampton Wanderers. He made his senior debut for Portugal in October 2015, and represented the nation at the UEFA European Championship in 2020 and 2024 and the FIFA World Cup in 2026. He was also a part of the squads that won the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2017 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the pitch at the old Estádio da Luz, reflecting the floodlights as Nélson jogged onto the field for what would become his final match. The crowd, sensing the magnitude of the moment, fell into a reverent silence before erupting into a roar that shook the stands. He touched the ball one last time on the right wing, not with the frantic energy of youth, but with the calm authority of a man who had given everything to this red and white jersey. As he walked off, arms raised to the sea of flags, it was clear: history had just been written in his footsteps.

Reader's Guide

Semedo is mainly known for his speed, ball control, dribbling and holding on the ball. He has won multiple honours including Primeira Liga titles with Benfica, La Liga with Barcelona, and the UEFA Nations League with Portugal.

Did You Know?

• Semedo made his senior debut for Portugal in October 2015.
• He scored his first goal for Benfica against Estoril in a 4-0 home win.
• Semedo won the Breakthrough Player of the Year award from the Liga Portuguesa de Futebol Profissional for the 2016–17 season.
• He was named club captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers in December 2024.