SL Benfica is one of the most historic, successful, and passionately supported clubs in European football — the pride of Lisbon and a giant of Portuguese football.
Quick Overview:
- Full Name: Sport Lisboa e Benfica
- Founded: 1904
- Location: Lisbon, Portugal
- Stadium: Estádio da Luz (Stadium of Light – Capacity: ~65,000)
- Colors: Red and White
- Nickname: As Águias (The Eagles), Os Encarnados (The Reds)
Major Achievements:
- Primeira Liga Titles: 38 (record holders in Portugal)
- Taça de Portugal: 26+
- Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira: 9
- UEFA Champions League:
- Winners: 2 (1961, 1962 – under the legendary Eusébio)
- Multiple Final Appearances: But famously cursed since the 1960s (the so-called Béla Guttmann curse)
- UEFA Europa League: Several recent runs to the final (2013, 2014 – runners-up)
Current Era (2024–25):
Manager: Roger Schmidt – Brought a high-energy, pressing style of play, and won the 2022–23 Liga title.
Key Players:
- Ángel Di María – Returned in 2023, bringing world-class experience
- João Neves – Young midfield sensation
- António Silva – Breakout defender, attracting top European interest
- Rafa Silva – Creative attacking threat
- Petar Musa / Arthur Cabral – Forward options
- Odisseas Vlachodimos (left in 2023) replaced by Anatoliy Trubin in goal
Youth System: Benfica's academy is elite — produced stars like João Félix, Rúben Dias, Bernardo Silva, and Ederson.
Playing Style:
Schmidt favors a high-press, vertical attacking game with tactical discipline — often built around a 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2 setup.
Benfica remains a powerhouse in Portugal and a consistent threat in Europe.