35 Facts About Benfica

Benfica's Early Days

Benfica, one of Portugal's most successful football clubs, has a rich history that dates back over a century. Here are some fascinating facts about its early days.

1. Founded on February 28, 1904, Benfica was initially named Sport Lisboa.
2. The club's first match was played against Campo de Ourique, ending in a 1-0 victory for Benfica.
3. Benfica's original colors were red and white, symbolizing bravery and peace.
4. The club's first president was Félix Bermudes, a key figure in its establishment.
5. In 1908, Sport Lisboa merged with Grupo Sport Benfica, forming the club we know today as Sport Lisboa e Benfica.

Stadium and Facilities

Benfica's home ground and facilities are iconic in the world of football. Let's look at some interesting details about their stadium and training grounds.

6. Estádio da Luz, Benfica's home stadium, is often called "The Cathedral" by fans.
7. The current Estádio da Luz was inaugurated on October 25, 2003, with a capacity of 65,647 seats.
8. The original Estádio da Luz, built in 1954, could hold up to 120,000 spectators.
9. Benfica's training facility, Caixa Futebol Campus, opened in 2006 and is located in Seixal.
10. The training campus includes nine football pitches, a gym, and a medical center.

Domestic Success

Benfica has a storied history of success in Portuguese football. Here are some key achievements.

11. Benfica has won the Primeira Liga, Portugal's top football division, a record 37 times.
12. The club has also secured the Taça de Portugal (Portuguese Cup) 26 times.
13. Benfica has claimed the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira (Portuguese Super Cup) eight times.
14. The club's first Primeira Liga title came in the 1935-36 season.
15. Benfica achieved a historic treble in the 2013-14 season, winning the Primeira Liga, Taça de Portugal, and Taça da Liga.

European Glory

Benfica has also made its mark on the European stage. Here are some highlights of their continental achievements.

16. Benfica won the European Cup, now known as the UEFA Champions League, in 1961 and 1962.
17. The club reached the European Cup final five more times but finished as runners-up on each occasion.
18. Eusébio, one of Benfica's most legendary players, was instrumental in their European successes.
19. Benfica's 1961 European Cup victory made them the first Portuguese club to win the prestigious trophy.
20. The club has also reached the UEFA Europa League final three times in recent years.

Legendary Players

Benfica has been home to many football legends. Let's explore some of the most iconic players who have donned the red and white.

21. Eusébio, known as "The Black Panther," scored 473 goals in 440 matches for Benfica.
22. Rui Costa, a midfield maestro, began and ended his illustrious career at Benfica.
23. Nené, another club legend, scored 361 goals in 575 appearances.
24. João Pinto, a fan favorite, played for Benfica from 1992 to 2000.
25. Ángel Di María, now a global star, honed his skills at Benfica before moving to Real Madrid.

Club Culture and Fanbase

Benfica's culture and fanbase are integral to its identity. Here are some insights into what makes the club unique.

26. Benfica's motto, "E Pluribus Unum," means "Out of Many, One."
27. The club's mascot, Águia Vitória, is a live eagle that flies around the stadium before matches.
28. Benfica has over 230,000 registered members, making it one of the largest clubs in the world by membership.
29. The club's supporters are known as "Benfiquistas."
30. Benfica's fanbase is renowned for its passionate support, both at home and away matches.

Modern Achievements

In recent years, Benfica has continued to build on its legacy. Here are some modern achievements that highlight the club's ongoing success.

31. Benfica won four consecutive Primeira Liga titles from 2013 to 2017.
32. The club has been a consistent participant in the UEFA Champions League group stages.
33. Benfica's youth academy is considered one of the best in Europe, producing talents like João Félix and Renato Sanches.
34. The club's women's team, established in 2018, won the Campeonato Nacional Feminino in their debut season.
35. Benfica's eSports division, launched in 2019, competes in various gaming tournaments worldwide.

Benfica's Legacy in a Nutshell

Benfica's history is packed with triumphs, legendary players, and memorable moments. From their humble beginnings in 1904 to becoming a powerhouse in European football, they've left an indelible mark on the sport. With 37 Primeira Liga titles, 26 Taça de Portugal wins, and 2 European Cups, their trophy cabinet is impressive. Legends like Eusébio and Rui Costa have donned the iconic red jersey, inspiring generations of fans. The Estádio da Luz, their home ground, is a fortress where countless dreams have been realized. Benfica's commitment to nurturing young talent through their academy ensures a bright future. Their passionate fan base, known as the "Benfiquistas," stands as a testament to the club's enduring appeal. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or a casual observer, Benfica's rich legacy in football is undeniable and continues to grow.