Club History and Profile
SL Benfica, commonly known simply as Benfica, is a professional football club based in Lisbon, Portugal. Competing in the Primeira Liga, the highest tier of Portuguese football, Benfica is one of the most successful and well-supported clubs in the country.
Founded on February 28, 1904, as Sport Lisboa, the club later adopted the name Sport Lisboa e Benfica. It is one of the “Big Three” Portuguese clubs—alongside Sporting CP and FC Porto—that have never been relegated from the top flight of Portuguese football. Known as As Águias (The Eagles) and Os Encarnados (The Reds), Benfica’s crest features an eagle, reflecting its nickname and symbol.
Benfica’s home ground is the Estádio da Luz, a modern stadium that opened in 2003, replacing the original, larger Estádio da Luz built in 1954. With an estimated 14 million supporters worldwide and over 250,000 members, Benfica boasts the highest number of supporters in Portugal and ranks as the second-largest sports club by membership globally. The club’s anthem, “Ser Benfiquista,” resonates deeply with its fans, who are known as benfiquistas. Their motto, “E pluribus unum” (“Out of many, one”), reflects the unity and pride of its supporters.
Achievements and Success
SL Benfica has enjoyed a rich history of success, amassing a total of 86 major trophies. This includes 38 Primeira Liga titles, 26 Taça de Portugal victories, 7 Taça da Liga wins, 9 Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira trophies, and 3 Campeonato de Portugal titles. On the international stage, Benfica claimed the Latin Cup in 1950 and secured back-to-back European Cups in 1961 and 1962. They also won the UEFA Europa League three times and have been runners-up in several other international tournaments.
Records and Statistics
Individual Records
Benfica has seen numerous standout players throughout its history. Nené holds the record for the most official appearances for the club, with 575 games. Eusébio, one of Benfica’s most legendary figures, is the club’s all-time top goalscorer, netting 473 goals in 440 competitive matches. He also leads Benfica’s UEFA club competition scoring charts with 56 goals. Luisão, another key figure, holds the record for the most trophies won (20) and has the most appearances in European matches for the club.
Cosme Damião is noted for his long tenure as the club’s coach, serving for 18 consecutive years. Otto Glória is recognized for his record number of league titles (4) and total trophies (9) before the advent of the league cup. Jorge Jesus stands out as the coach with the most trophies won (10), including 3 league titles, 1 cup, 5 league cups, and 1 super cup. With at least 34 games played and an astounding 85.29% victory percentage, Rui Vitória leads the domestic league.
Collective Records
Benfica, officially known as Sport Lisboa e Benfica, made history by becoming the first Portuguese team to complete two unbeaten seasons, in 1972–73 and 1977–78. In the 1972–73 season, they set two records: achieving 58 points in 30 matches (a 96.7% efficiency) and the largest points difference between champions and runners-up (18 points) in a two-points-per-win system. The 2015–16 season saw Benfica accumulate 88 points in 34 matches, setting a club record for points in an 18-team league.
Benfica also holds the European record for the most consecutive domestic league wins (29) from 1971–72 to 1972–73 and the longest unbeaten run in all competitions (48 matches from December 1963 to February 1965). In the 1965–66 European Cup, Benfica set records for the highest goal margin on aggregate and their biggest win in UEFA competitions. As of the 2022–23 season, Benfica has made 42 appearances in the UEFA Champions League and 21 in the UEFA Europa League, ranking fifth in UEFA competition history with 655 goals in 405 matches.
The first team of Sport Lisboa e Benfica has cemented their place in the world of sports with remarkable achievements. Founded in 1904, the club has consistently demonstrated exceptional form on the pitch. Their home stadium, Estádio da Luz, is a fortress where many of their historic matches and wins have taken place. With their legacy in Portuguese football, Benfica continues to be a prominent team in international sports news.
Player Profiles
Current Squad
SL Benfica’s current squad boasts a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents. Key figures include Nicolás Otamendi, the Argentine captain, known for his strong defensive skills and leadership on the field. Renowned for his previous successes with clubs like Manchester City and Valencia, Otamendi brings a wealth of experience to the team.
In midfield, Renato Sanches, on loan from PSG, offers dynamic playmaking and energy, while André Gomes adds depth and creativity. The attack features Gianluca Prestianni and Benjamín Rollheiser, who are poised to make their mark with their potential and skill.
Defensively, the squad is reinforced by the likes of Issa Kaboré, who is on loan from Manchester City, and Tomás Araújo, who is expected to be a key player in the backline. Young talents like Tiago Gouveia and Florentino Luís also contribute to the squad’s versatility.
Overall, Benfica’s squad is well-balanced, combining experienced international stars with emerging young players, positioning them strongly for both domestic and European challenges.
Best Players of All Time
- Nuno Gomes: The Portuguese striker made a significant impact during his two stints with Benfica, scoring 166 goals in 401 appearances and helping the team clinch two titles. Despite his retirement, his influence on the club remains profound.
- Rui Costa: Known for his exceptional playmaking abilities, Rui Costa’s time at Benfica saw him contribute significantly both as a player and now as the club’s president. His two periods at the club were marked by impressive achievements.
- Luisão: A stalwart defender, Luisão spent 15 years with Benfica, making 538 appearances and winning numerous titles. His leadership and contributions to the team have left a lasting legacy.
Coaching and Leadership
Benfica’s coaching staff is led by experienced professionals who have contributed to the club’s success over the years. The current coach, Bruno Lage, has demonstrated his expertise by leading Benfica to the 2018–19 Primeira Liga title and the 2019 Super Cup. The club’s leadership focuses on fostering a winning environment built on hard work, discipline, and excellence.
Fan Culture and Community
Benfica has a passionate and loyal fan base, with supporters spanning the globe. Known for their commitment to the team, Benfica’s fans create a vibrant and intimidating atmosphere at matches. The club’s supporters, or benfiquistas, gather at Casas do Benfica—supporter clubs that facilitate cultural, social, and sporting interactions. Benfica’s popularity is evident in its significant following, with approximately 14 million supporters worldwide, making it the most popular club in Portugal.
During the 2022–23 season, Benfica had the highest average home attendance in the Portuguese league, with 57,108 spectators per match. The club’s supporters celebrate league titles and other victories at prominent locations like the Marquis of Pombal Square in Lisbon, showcasing their deep connection to the team.
Stadium and Facilities
Benfica’s home ground, the Estádio da Luz, is a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of over 65,000. Opened in 2003, the stadium features modern amenities, including restaurants, bars, and shops. It has hosted significant events, such as matches during UEFA Euro 2004 and the UEFA Champions League finals in 2014 and 2020.
The club’s training facilities, located at Benfica Campus in Seixal, are world-class, offering top-notch pitches, gyms, and medical facilities. The campus, opened in 2006, is integral to the club’s commitment to player development and preparation.
Rivalries
Benfica’s rivalries with Sporting CP and FC Porto are among the most intense in Portuguese football. The matches between Benfica and Sporting CP, known as the Lisbon derby, are highly anticipated and have a rich history dating back to 1907. The rivalry with FC Porto, which began in 1912, is also significant, as both clubs are among the most decorated in Portuguese football.
Finances and Ownership
On February 10, 2000, Benfica created Sport Lisboa e Benfica – Futebol, SAD, a public limited sports company. This move aimed to manage the team’s professional football activities, including TV rights, player image rights, and brand exploitation. Benfica SAD entered the PSI-20 stock exchange in 2007, and subsequent financial strategies, including sponsorship deals and player transfers, have contributed to the club’s financial stability and growth.
In recent years, Benfica has achieved notable financial milestones, including a record income from player transfers and profitable sponsorship agreements. These efforts have helped the club manage its debts and continue investing in its facilities and squad.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, SL Benfica remains focused on maintaining its status as a leading force in Portuguese and European football. The club aims to build on its rich history and continue its success both domestically and internationally. With a strong squad, dedicated fan base, and robust financial strategy, Benfica is well-positioned to achieve its future goals and further solidify its legacy in the world of football.
Benfica’s ongoing commitment to excellence, both on and off the pitch, ensures that the club will remain a prominent figure in Portuguese football and a respected competitor in European competitions.
