Benfica

Sport Lisboa e Benfica, commonly known as Benfica, is a renowned football club based in Lisbon, Portugal. Founded on February 28, 1904, by a group of 24 enthusiasts led by Cosme Damião, the club has grown to become one of the most successful and popular football clubs in Portugal and Europe.

Benfica's emblem is a soaring eagle, symbolizing independence, authority, and nobility. The club's colors, red and white, represent bravery and peace, respectively. The team plays their home matches at the Estádio da Luz, also known as the Stadium of Light, which can accommodate over 64,000 spectators.

Benfica's history is studded with numerous achievements. The club has won the Primeira Liga, Portugal's top-flight football league, more than 35 times. They have also clinched the Taca de Portugal (Portugal Cup) over 25 times and the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira (Portuguese Super Cup) multiple times. Internationally, Benfica has twice won the prestigious European Cup, now known as the UEFA Champions League, in 1961 and 1962.

Benfica has a reputation for nurturing young talent. The club's youth academy, Caixa Futebol Campus, is one of the most respected in the world. It has produced numerous high-profile players who have gone on to achieve great success, including Rui Costa, Luís Figo, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The club has also been home to some of the greatest footballers in history, including Eusébio, known as the "Black Panther," who is considered one of the best footballers of all time. Other notable players include José Águas, Nené, and Mário Coluna.

Benfica's fan base is extensive, with an estimated 14 million supporters worldwide, making it one of the most supported clubs globally. The club's supporters are known as "Benfiquistas." They are known for their passion and loyalty, often filling the Estádio da Luz to capacity for home games.

Off the pitch, Benfica is also recognized for its commitment to social responsibility. The club runs several community programs, focusing on areas such as health, education, and social inclusion. The Benfica Foundation, established in 2009, spearheads these initiatives.

Despite facing challenges and competition, Benfica has remained a dominant force in Portuguese and European football. The club's rich history, coupled with its commitment to nurturing talent and serving the community, cements its status as a respected institution in the world of football.