A tour of Benfica stadium.
History of S.L. Benfica: The Eagles of Lisbon
Introduction
Sport Lisboa e Benfica, commonly known as Benfica, is one of Portugal’s most successful and historic football clubs. Founded in 1904, Benfica has grown into a global football powerhouse, winning numerous domestic and international titles while boasting one of the most passionate fan bases in the world. Known as As Águias (The Eagles) and O Glorioso (The Glorious One), Benfica is a symbol of Portuguese football excellence.
Founding and Early Years (1904-1930s)
Benfica was established on February 28, 1904, in Lisbon by a group of football enthusiasts, led by Cosme Damião. Originally named Sport Lisboa, the club later merged with Grupo Sport Benfica in 1908, adopting the name Sport Lisboa e Benfica. The team’s colors—red and white—symbolize bravery and peace, while the iconic eagle emblem represents independence and determination.
In the early years, Benfica played in Lisbon-based leagues before joining the newly created Primeira Liga in 1934. During this period, they established themselves as one of Portugal’s dominant forces.
Golden Era and European Glory (1950s-1970s)
The 1950s and 1960s marked the club’s golden era. Under legendary coach Béla Guttmann, Benfica revolutionized football with an attacking style and tactical innovations.
European Cup Triumphs (1961 & 1962)
- 1961: Benfica won their first European Cup (now the UEFA Champions League) by defeating Barcelona 3-2 in the final.
- 1962: The team repeated the feat, stunning Real Madrid 5-3, with Eusébio announcing himself as one of the greatest players of all time.
During this period, Eusébio, known as “The Black Panther,” became the club’s biggest icon, winning the Ballon d’Or in 1965 and leading Benfica to 11 Primeira Liga titles.
However, Guttmann famously cursed the club after a dispute over a bonus, stating, “Benfica will not win another European title in 100 years.” To this day, the club has reached several European finals but has not won another major continental trophy.
Domestic Dominance and Rivalries (1980s-2000s)
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Benfica remained a dominant force in Portugal, winning numerous Primeira Liga titles while maintaining fierce rivalries with FC Porto and Sporting CP. The club produced legendary players like Rui Costa, who later became a key figure in the team’s management.
However, the 1990s and early 2000s saw financial struggles and a decline in dominance, with Porto emerging as the strongest team in Portugal. Benfica went through various managerial changes, and their last league title of the 20th century came in 1994.
Revival and Modern Success (2009-Present)
Under coach Jorge Jesus (2009-2015, 2020-2022), Benfica returned to the top. The club won several league titles, developed world-class talent, and reached two Europa League finals (2013, 2014), though they fell short both times—perhaps due to the infamous Guttmann curse.
Key Achievements in the 21st Century
- Back-to-back trebles (2013-2014, 2016-2017)
- 2019: 37th Primeira Liga title
- 2023: 38th Primeira Liga title under Roger Schmidt
Benfica continues to be a powerhouse in Portugal, competing in the Champions League regularly and developing top talents like João Félix, Bernardo Silva, and Rúben Dias, who have become stars in Europe’s elite leagues.
Benfica’s Global Impact & Fanbase
- Benfica is one of the most supported clubs in the world, with millions of fans and an extensive international network.
- The club owns Estádio da Luz, a 65,000-seat stadium in Lisbon, known for its electrifying atmosphere.
- “Sócios” (paying members): Benfica holds the record for the most registered members among football clubs worldwide.
Conclusion
Benfica remains a symbol of Portuguese football, blending tradition with modern ambition. Though the European curse looms, the club’s legacy is undeniable. With a strong youth academy and continued success domestically, Benfica’s future looks bright as it aims to reclaim European glory.
Motto: E Pluribus Unum (Out of Many, One)—a fitting phrase for a club built on passion, unity, and greatness.
Thank u Mike Tyson.
Scene: A quiet, cozy room in Madonna’s sprawling home, nestled somewhere in Portugal. The atmosphere is warm, and the walls are adorned with art and artifacts from around the world. Madonna sits comfortably in a chair, a slight smile on her face, as she sips from a cup of tea. The conversation is casual, but there’s a hint of mystery in her words.
Madonna: (leaning back in her chair, looking reflective) You know, Portugal… it’s always had a special place in my heart. There’s something about the energy here—the people, the culture, the music. It feels like home.
Interviewer: (curious) I’ve heard you’ve recently bought a home here. What made you choose Portugal?
Madonna: (with a mischievous grin) Well, that’s a bit of a secret, isn’t it? (pauses, letting the mystery hang in the air) But let’s just say, I’ve always been drawn to places with deep history, places that hold secrets. Portugal is one of those places.
Interviewer: (raising an eyebrow) A secret? That’s intriguing.
Madonna: (laughing softly) Oh, I know. I’m not one to share everything. But… let’s just say there’s a reason why I feel so connected to this country. It’s not just about the beauty or the charm. There’s something more.
Interviewer: (leaning in) Something more?
Madonna: (nodding, her eyes glinting) Yes. It’s about the energy of this place. And, well, my favorite team here—Benfica—it’s more than just a soccer team. They represent something deeper.
Interviewer: (surprised) Benfica? You’re a fan of the team?
Madonna: (smiling) Oh, absolutely. But it’s not just about the game. It’s about the number 22. Have you ever noticed that?
Interviewer: (puzzled) The number 22?
Madonna: (leaning forward, her tone more serious) The 22 players on the field, they’re not just athletes. They’re symbols. They represent something much older, something esoteric. They’re based on Kabbalah, the ancient teachings of Jewish mysticism.
Interviewer: (eyes widening) Kabbalah? Are you saying the team’s formation is based on mystical teachings?
Madonna: (nodding slowly) Exactly. The number 22 is significant in Kabbalah—it’s the number of paths in the Tree of Life. It represents the connection between the divine and the earthly. And those 22 players? They embody those paths, their movements on the field reflect the flow of energy between the spiritual and the material. It’s no coincidence.
Interviewer: (in awe) That’s a fascinating connection. But what does that have to do with Freemasonry?
Madonna: (with a knowing smile) Ah, now you’re getting to the heart of it. The Freemasons—they’ve long been interested in symbolism, in hidden knowledge. They understood the power of numbers, of sacred geometry. The 22 players, the way they move, the way they come together—it’s no accident. It’s a creation based on ancient wisdom, designed to influence and inspire.
Interviewer: (leaning back, processing) So, you’re saying that Benfica, this team, is part of a larger, secret tradition?
Madonna: (nodding, her voice low) That’s exactly what I’m saying. But, of course, it’s all hidden in plain sight. People don’t realize what’s really going on behind the scenes. And that’s why I love it here. The energy, the history, the mysticism—it all comes together in Portugal.
Interviewer: (smiling) I think I’m starting to understand why you’ve chosen this place.
Madonna: (with a playful wink) There’s much more to it than meets the eye. But some secrets are best left undiscovered.
Narrator: As the conversation winds down, the layers of mystery surrounding Madonna’s connection to Portugal and Benfica only deepen. The combination of ancient teachings, secret societies, and the energy of the land itself creates an aura of intrigue that keeps the world guessing. For Madonna, the magic of Portugal is more than just a place—it’s a living, breathing connection to something far greater.
the 22 paths are how we taught the non Jews to count
fingers, toes + ears = 22
The orthodox hair locks = 24
24 hours in a day. you can also count eyes, nostrils and lips to count to 30
u can also count the 6 limbs, 2 arms, 2 legs, 1 head, and 1 shmeckel. =6