- published: 08 Apr 2012
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- 1955–56 European Cup
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Albania
Albania (
i/ælˈbeɪniə/ al-BAY-nee-ə, Albanian: Shqipëri/Shqipëria; Gheg Albanian: Shqipnia), officially known as the Republic of Albania (Albanian: Republika e Shqipërisë pronounced Albanian pronunciation: [ɾɛpuˈblika ɛ ʃcipəˈɾiːs]), is a country in Southern Europe. It is bordered by Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, the Republic of Macedonia to the east and Greece to the south and southeast. It has a coast on the Adriatic Sea to the west, and on the Ionian Sea to the southwest. It is less than 72 km (45 mi) from Italy, across the Strait of Otranto which links the Adriatic Sea to the Ionian Sea.
Albania is a member of the UN, NATO, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Council of Europe, World Trade Organisation, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and one of the founding members of the Union for the Mediterranean. Albania has been a potential candidate for accession to the European Union since January 2003, and it formally applied for EU membership on 28 April 2009.
wn.com/Albania -
Andorra
Andorra (i/ænˈdɔrə/; Catalan pronunciation: [ənˈdorə], locally: [anˈdɔra]), officially the Principality of Andorra (Catalan: Principat d'Andorra), also called the Principality of the Valleys of Andorra, (Catalan: Principat de les Valls d'Andorra), is a small landlocked country in southwestern Europe, located in the eastern Pyrenees mountains and bordered by Spain and France. It is the sixth smallest nation in Europe having an area of 468 km2 (181 sq mi) and an estimated population of 84,082 in 2009. Its capital, Andorra la Vella, is the highest capital city in Europe, at an elevation of 1,023 metres (3,356 ft) above sea level. The official language is Catalan, although Spanish, Portuguese, and French are also commonly spoken.
The Principality was formed in 1278. The role of monarch is exercised jointly by the two co-princes, the Catalan Bishop of Urgell and the President of France (the whole state is a part of Diocese of Urgell).
Andorra is a prosperous country mainly because of its tourism industry, which services an estimated 10.2 million visitors annually, and also because of its status as a tax haven. It is not a member of the European Union, but the euro is the de facto currency. The people of Andorra have the 4th highest human life expectancy in the world — 82 years at birth.
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Angola
Angola, officially the Republic of Angola (Portuguese: República de Angola, pronounced: [ʁɨˈpublikɐ dɨ ɐ̃ˈɡɔla];Kikongo, Kimbundu, Umbundu: Repubilika ya Ngola), is a country in southern Africa bordered by Namibia on the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the north, and Zambia on the east; its west coast is on the Atlantic Ocean with Luanda as its capital city. The exclave province of Cabinda has borders with the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The Portuguese were present in some—mostly coastal—points of the territory of what is now Angola, from the 16th to the 19th century, interacting in diverse ways with the peoples that lived there. In the 19th century they slowly and hesitantly began to establish themselves in the interior. Angola as a Portuguese colony encompassing the present territory was not established before the end of the 19th century, and "effective occupation", as required by the Berlin Conference (1884) was achieved only by the 1920s. Independence was achieved in 1975, after a protracted liberation war. After independence, Angola was the scene of an intense civil war from 1975 to 2002. The country has vast mineral and petroleum reserves, and its economy has on average grown at a two-digit pace since the 1990s, especially since the end of the civil war. In spite of this, standards of living remain low for the majority of the population, and life expectancy and infant mortality rates in Angola are among the worst-ranked in the world. At the same time, a minority has reached comfortable life standards, and the dominant stratum has succeeded in accumulating considerable wealth, so that social inequality in Angola is one of the highest in the world.
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Argentina
Argentinai/ˌɑrdʒənˈtiːnə/, officially the Argentine Republic (Spanish: República Argentina [reˈpuβlika aɾxenˈtina]), is a country in South America, the continent's second largest by land area, after Brazil. It is constituted as a federation of 23 provinces and an autonomous city, Buenos Aires. It is the eighth-largest country in the world by land area and the largest among Spanish-speaking nations.
Argentina's continental area is between the Andes mountain range in the west and the Atlantic Ocean in the east. It borders Paraguay and Bolivia to the north, Brazil and Uruguay to the northeast, and Chile to the west and south. Argentine claims over Antarctica, as well as overlapping claims made by Chile and the United Kingdom, are suspended by the Antarctic Treaty of 1961. Argentina also claims the Falkland Islands (Spanish: Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, which are administered by the United Kingdom as British Overseas Territories.
A recognised middle power, Argentina is Latin America's third-largest economy, with a "very high" rating on the Human development index. Within Latin America, Argentina has the fifth highest nominal GDP per capita and the highest in purchasing power terms. Analysts have argued that the country has a "foundation for future growth due to its market size, levels of foreign direct investment, and percentage of high-tech exports as share of total manufactured goods", and it is classed by investors as middle emerging economy. Argentina is a founding member of the United Nations, Mercosur, the Union of South American Nations, the Organization of Ibero-American States, the World Bank Group and the World Trade Organization, and is one of the G-15 and G-20 major economies.
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Australia
Australia (
/əˈstreɪljə/), officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of the Australian continent as well as the island of Tasmania and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by total area. Neighbouring countries include Indonesia, East Timor and Papua New Guinea to the north; the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia to the north-east; and New Zealand to the south-east.
For at least 40,000 years before European settlement in the late 18th century, Australia was inhabited by indigenous Australians, who belonged to one or more of roughly 250 language groups. After discovery by Dutch explorers in 1606, Australia's eastern half was claimed by Great Britain in 1770 and settled through penal transportation to the colony of New South Wales from 26 January 1788. The population grew steadily in subsequent decades; the continent was explored and an additional five self-governing Crown Colonies were established.
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Austria
Austria (i/ˈɒstriə/ or /ˈɔːstriə/; German: Österreich [ˈøːstɐˌʁaɪç] (
listen)), officially the Republic of Austria (German: Republik Österreich (help·info)), is a landlocked country of roughly 8.47 million people in Central Europe. It is bordered by the Czech Republic and Germany to the north, Hungary and Slovakia to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. The territory of Austria covers 83,855 square kilometres (32,377 sq mi) and has a temperate and alpine climate. Austria's terrain is highly mountainous due to the presence of the Alps; only 32% of the country is below 500 metres (1,640 ft), and its highest point is 3,798 metres (12,461 ft). The majority of the population speak local Austro-Bavarian dialects of German as their native language, and German in its standard form is the country's official language. Other local official languages are Burgenland Croatian, Hungarian and Slovene.
The origins of modern-day Austria date back to the time of the Habsburg dynasty when the vast majority of the country was a part of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Austria became one of the great powers of Europe and, in response to the coronation of Napoleon I as the Emperor of the French, the Austrian Empire was officially proclaimed in 1804. In 1867, the Austrian Empire was reformed into Austria-Hungary.
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Belgium
Belgium (i/ˈbɛldʒəm/ BEL-jəm), officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a federal state in Western Europe. It is a founding member of the European Union and hosts the EU's headquarters, and those of several other major international organisations such as NATO. Belgium covers an area of 30,528 square kilometres (11,787 sq mi), and it has a population of about 11 million people. Straddling the cultural boundary between Germanic and Latin Europe, Belgium is home to two main linguistic groups, the Dutch-speakers, mostly Flemish (about 60%), and the French-speakers, mostly Walloons (about 40%), plus a small group of German-speakers. Belgium's two largest regions are the Dutch-speaking region of Flanders in the north and the French-speaking southern region of Wallonia. The Brussels-Capital Region, officially bilingual, is a mostly French-speaking enclave within the Flemish Region. A German-speaking Community exists in eastern Wallonia. Belgium's linguistic diversity and related political conflicts are reflected in the political history and a complex system of government.
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Belém
Belém (literally "Bethlehem") is a Brazilian city, the capital and largest city of state of Pará, in the country's north region. It is the entrance gate to the Amazon with a busy port, airport and bus/coach station. Belém lies approximately 100 km upriver from the Atlantic Ocean, on the Pará River, which is part of the greater Amazon River system, separated from the larger part of the Amazon delta by Ilha de Marajó (Marajo Island). With an estimated population of 1,402,056 people — 2,249,405, or considering its metropolitan area — is the 11th most populous city in Brazil (besides being the second largest in the North Region, second only Manaus, in Amazonas state) as well as be the 16th by economic relevance.
Founded in 1616 by the Kingdom of Portugal, Belém was the first European colony on the Amazon but did not become part of Brazil until 1775. The newer part of the city has modern buildings and skyscrapers. The colonial portion retains the charm of tree-filled squares, churches and traditional blue tiles. The city has a rich history and architecture from colonial times. Recently it witnessed a skyscraper boom. Its metropolitan area has over 2 million inhabitants.
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Benfica (Lisbon)
Benfica (Portuguese pronunciation: [bɐ̃ȷ̃ˈfikɐ]) is a Portuguese parish, located in the municipality of Lisbon. It has a population of 38,523 inhabitants and a total area of 7.94 km².
The biggest park of Lisbon, Monsanto Forest Park, is located in Benfica.
In 1959, the parish was split and gave origin to the parish of São Domingos de Benfica. In this period, Lisbon was experiencing a fast growth, in the 1950s the population of the parish was 17,843 inhabitants, forty years later it exceeded 50,000. However, in the 1990s, the population of Lisbon started to decline, with thousands of people leaving to the suburbs and the parish population declined to the present 38,500 inhabitants.
Coordinates: 38°45′04″N 9°12′07″W / 38.751°N 9.202°W / 38.751; -9.202
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Brazil
Brazili/brəˈzɪl/ (Portuguese: Brasil, IPA: [bɾaˈziw]), officially the Federative Republic of Brazil (Portuguese: República Federativa do Brasil, listen (help·info)), is the largest country in South America. It is the world's fifth largest country, both by geographical area and by population with over 192 million people. It is the only Portuguese-speaking country in the Americas and the largest lusophone country in the world.
Bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east, Brazil has a coastline of 7,491 km (4,655 mi). It is bordered on the north by Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and the French overseas region of French Guiana; on the northwest by Colombia; on the west by Bolivia and Peru; on the southwest by Argentina and Paraguay and on the south by Uruguay. Numerous archipelagos form part of Brazilian territory, such as Fernando de Noronha, Rocas Atoll, Saint Peter and Paul Rocks, and Trindade and Martim Vaz. It borders all other South American countries except Ecuador and Chile.
Brazil was a colony of Portugal from the landing of Pedro Álvares Cabral in 1500 until 1815, when it was elevated to the rank of kingdom and the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil and the Algarves was formed. The colonial bond was in fact broken in 1808, when the capital of the Portuguese colonial empire was transferred from Lisbon to Rio de Janeiro, after Napoleon invaded Portugal.Independence was achieved in 1822 with the formation of the Empire of Brazil, a unitary state governed under a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary system. The country became a presidential republic in 1889, when a military coup d'état proclaimed the Republic, although the bicameral legislature, now called Congress, dates back to the ratification of the first constitution in 1824. Its current Constitution, formulated in 1988, defines Brazil as a Federal Republic. The Federation is formed by the union of the Federal District, the 26 States, and the 5,564 Municipalities.
wn.com/Brazil -
Canada
Canada ( /ˈkænədə/) is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean. Spanning over 9,900,000 km2 (3,800,000 sq mi), Canada is the world's second-largest country by total area, and its common border with the United States is the longest land border in the world.
The land that is now Canada has been inhabited for millennia by various Aboriginal peoples. Beginning in the late 15th century, British and French colonial expeditions explored, and later settled, along the region's Atlantic coast. France ceded nearly all of its colonies in North America in 1763 after the Seven Years' War. In 1867, with the union of three British North American colonies through Confederation, Canada was formed as a federal dominion of four provinces. This began an accretion of provinces and territories and a process of increasing autonomy; the Canada Act 1982 severed the vestiges of legal dependence on Britain.
wn.com/Canada -
Cape Verde
Cape Verdei/ˌkeɪp ˈvɜrd/ (Portuguese: Cabo Verde, pronounced: [ˈkabu ˈveɾdɨ]), officially the Republic of Cape Verde, is an island country, spanning an archipelago of 10 islands located in the central Atlantic Ocean, 570 kilometres off the coast of Western Africa. The islands, covering a combined area of slightly over 4,000 square kilometres (1,500 sq mi), are of volcanic origin and while three of them (Sal, Boa Vista and Maio) are fairly flat, sandy and dry, the remaining ones are generally rockier and have more vegetation. However, because of the infrequent occurrence of rainfall the overall landscape is not particularly green.
The name of the country stems from the nearby Cap Vert, on the Senegalese coast, which in its turn was originally named "Cabo Verde" when it was sighted by Portuguese explorers in 1444, a few years before the islands were discovered (verde is Portuguese for "green").
The previously uninhabited islands were discovered and colonized by the Portuguese in the 15th Century, and became important in the Atlantic slave trade for their location. The islands' prosperity often attracted privateers and pirates, including Sir Francis Drake, a corsair (privateer) under the authority of the British crown, who twice sacked the (then) capital Ribeira Grande, in the 1580s. The islands were also visited by Charles Darwin's expedition in 1832. The decline in the slave trade in the 19th century resulted in an economic crisis for the islands. With few natural resources, and without strong sustainable investment from the Portuguese, the citizens grew increasingly discontent with the colonial masters, who nevertheless refused to provide the local authorities with more autonomy. This discontent festered and culminated in 1975, when a movement originally led by Amílcar Cabral who was assassinated on 20 January 1973 then passed onto his half-brother Luís Cabral, achieved independence for the archipelago.
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Chile
Chile (i/ˈtʃɪliː/ or /ˈtʃɪleɪ/), officially the Republic of Chile (Spanish: República de Chile [reˈpuβlika ðe ˈtʃile] ( listen)), is a country in South America occupying a long, narrow strip of land between the Andes mountains to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It borders Peru to the north, Bolivia to the northeast, Argentina to the east, and the Drake Passage in the far south. Along with Ecuador, it is one of two countries in South America that do not border Brazil. Chilean territory includes the Pacific islands of Juan Fernández, Salas y Gómez, Desventuradas and Easter Island. Chile also claims about 1,250,000 square kilometres (480,000 sq mi) of Antarctica, although all claims are suspended under the Antarctic Treaty.
Chile's distinctive shape—4,300 kilometres (2,700 mi) long and on average 175 kilometres (109 mi) wide—makes it the longest country in the world, north to south, with the fifth lengthiest coastline at over 78 thousand kilometers. The diverse climate of Chile ranges from the world's driest desert in the north—the Atacama—through a Mediterranean climate in the centre, humid subtropical in Easter Island, to an Oceanic climate, including alpine tundra and glaciers in the east and south. The northern desert contains great mineral wealth, principally copper. The relatively small central area dominates in terms of population and agricultural resources, and is the cultural and political center from which Chile expanded in the late 19th century when it incorporated its northern and southern regions. Southern Chile is rich in forests and grazing lands, and features a string of volcanoes and lakes. The southern coast is a labyrinth of fjords, inlets, canals, twisting peninsulas, and islands.
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Croatia
Croatia (i/kroʊˈeɪʃə/ kroh-AY-shə; Croatian: Hrvatska pronounced [xř̩ʋaːtskaː]), officially the Republic of Croatia (Croatian: Republika Hrvatska listen (help·info)), is a unitary democratic parliamentary republic in Europe at the crossroads of Central Europe, the Balkans, and the Mediterranean. Its capital and largest city is Zagreb. The country is divided into 20 counties and the city of Zagreb. Croatia covers 56,594 square kilometres (21,851 square miles) and has diverse, mostly continental and Mediterranean climates. Croatia's Adriatic Sea coast contains more than a thousand islands. The country's population is 4.29 million, most of whom are Croats, with the most common religious denomination being Roman Catholicism.
In the early 7th century the Croats arrived in area of present-day Croatia. They organised the state into two dukedoms by the 9th century. Tomislav became the first king by 925 AD, elevating Croatia to the status of a kingdom. The Kingdom of Croatia retained its sovereignty for nearly two centuries, reaching its peak during the rule of Kings Peter Krešimir IV and Dmitar Zvonimir. Croatia entered a personal union with Hungary in 1102. In 1527, faced with Ottoman conquest the Croatian Parliament elected Ferdinand I of the House of Habsburg to the Croatian throne. In 1918, after World War I, Croatia was included in the short-lived State of Slovenes, Croats, and Serbs that declared independence from Austria–Hungary and co-founded the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. A Croatian state briefly existed during World War II as a fascist puppet state. After the war, Croatia became a founding member and a federal constituent of the Second Yugoslavia, a socialist state. In June 1991, Croatia declared independence, which came into effect on 8 October of the same year. The Croatian War of Independence was fought successfully during the four years following the declaration.
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Czech Republic
The Czech Republic (i/ˈtʃɛk/ CHEK;Czech: Česká republika, pronounced [ˈtʃɛskaː ˈrɛpuˌblɪka] ( listen), short form Česko Czech pronunciation: [ˈtʃɛskɔ]) is a landlocked country in Central Europe. The country is bordered by Poland to the north, Germany to the west, Austria to the south and Slovakia to the east. Its capital and largest city, with 1.3 million inhabitants, is Prague.
It is a pluralist multi-party parliamentary representative democracy, a member of the European Union, NATO, the OECD, the OSCE, the Council of Europe and the Visegrád Group.
The Czech state, formerly known as Bohemia, was formed in the late 9th century as a small duchy around Prague, at that time under dominance of the powerful Great Moravian Empire (which reached its greatest territorial extent during the reign of Svatopluk I from the House of Mojmír). After the fall of the Empire in 907, the centre of power was transferred from Moravia to Bohemia, under the Přemyslids. During the rule of Přemyslid dukes/kings and their successors, the Luxembourgs, the country reached its greatest territorial extent (13th–14th century). Life in the country was significantly affected by the Hussite wars, during which it faced economic embargo and crusades from all over Europe. Following the Battle of Mohács in 1526, the Crown of Bohemia was gradually integrated into the Habsburg monarchy as one of its three principal parts alongside the Archduchy of Austria and the Kingdom of Hungary. The Bohemian Revolt (1618–20) led to the further centralization of the monarchy including forced recatholization and Germanization. During radical reforms in the 18th century the Bohemian Crown was even de facto abolished (1749). In the 19th century the Czech lands became the industrial powerhouse of the monarchy and the core of the Republic of Czechoslovakia which was formed in 1918, following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian empire after World War I.
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Denmark
The Kingdom of Denmark (Danish: Kongeriget Danmark, pronounced [ˈkɔŋəʁiːəð ˈdanmɑɡ̊] ( listen)) is a constitutional monarchy and sovereign state consisting the country of Denmark in northern Europe and two autonomous constituent countries, the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic and Greenland in North America. The kingdom is a unitary state with some power being devolved from Denmark proper to Greenland and the Faroe Islands; this polity is referred to as the Danish Realm. Denmark proper is the hegemonial area, where judicial, executive, and legislative power resides. The Faroe Islands are defined to be a community of people within the kingdom, and the Greenlandic people are defined as a separate people with the right to self-determination.
Denmark is the southernmost of the Nordic countries, located southwest of Sweden and south of Norway, and bordered to the south by Germany. The country consists of a large peninsula, Jutland and many islands, most notably Zealand, Funen, Lolland, Falster and Bornholm, as well as hundreds of minor islands often referred to as the Danish Archipelago.
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England
Englandi/ˈɪŋɡlənd/ is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west; the Irish Sea is to the north west, the Celtic Sea to the south west, while the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south separate it from continental Europe. Most of England comprises the central and southern part of the island of Great Britain in the North Atlantic. The country also includes over 100 smaller islands such as the Isles of Scilly and the Isle of Wight.
The area now called England was first inhabited by modern humans during the Upper Palaeolithic period, but it takes its name from the Angles, one of the Germanic tribes who settled during the 5th and 6th centuries. England became a unified state in AD 927, and since the Age of Discovery, which began during the 15th century, has had a significant cultural and legal impact on the wider world. The English language, the Anglican Church, and English law—the basis for the common law legal systems of many other countries around the world—developed in England, and the country's parliamentary system of government has been widely adopted by other nations. The Industrial Revolution began in 18th-century England, transforming its society into the world's first industrialised nation. England's Royal Society laid the foundations of modern experimental science.
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Estádio da Luz
The Estádio da Luz (Portuguese pronunciation: [(ɨ)ˈʃtadiu dɐ ˈluʒ]), officially named the Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica and commonly translated as the Stadium of Light, is a football stadium in Lisbon, Portugal, the home of Sport Lisboa e Benfica. It is also called A Catedral ("The Cathedral") by Benfica's supporters.
The ground is named after "Our Lady of the Light" (Nossa Senhora da Luz, or more commonly, Luz), which is the name of the Lisbon parish where the stadium stands. "Da luz," or "of light," is a common concept in Portuguese Catholic tradition, and basically translates as those "in the presence of God." The people of Lisbon often refer to the original stadium, demolished beginning in 2002, as simply "the light," but the common English name for the stadium became "the stadium of light."
It hosted several matches in the 2004 European Championship, including the final. The previous Benfica stadium (also called Estádio da Luz and one of the largest stadiums in the world with 120,000 seats) was demolished and the new one was built for the tournament with an official capacity of 65,400. Populous designed the stadium to use as much natural light as possible. The original Estádio da Luz, opened in 1954, hosted the 1992 European Cup Winners' Cup final before a crowd of well over 120,000, its absolute capacity in those years. Before that final, it also hosted the 1991 FIFA World Youth Championship final held in Portugal with an impressive attendance of 130,000. The original stadium replaced the Estádio do Campo Grande.
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Eusébio Cup
The Eusébio Cup is an annual football tournament held at Sport Lisboa e Benfica's Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal. Benfica host the tournament in early-mid August, one or two weeks before the regular season kicks off. It is usually Benfica's and the participating team's last pre-season match. The trophy is presented to the winning team by legendary Portuguese footballer Eusébio, to whom this tournament is dedicated. In the 2011 edition, Benfica played against Arsenal. The match took place on 6 August 2011, and Benfica won the cup, with a score of 2–1.
Portuguese television channel SIC has held the match coverage since the tournament began in 2008, however, the 2011 edition was broadcast on TVI.
The trophy is made out of glass and bears the name of the tournament and its winners. It also features Eusébio on the top performing one of his trademark shooting techniques. The Eusébio figure is similar to the statue outside of Benfica's current stadium. The trophy is symbolic as it is dedicated to Eusébio who is regarded as the greatest Portuguese footballer of all time for club and country as well as one of the best in the history of football.
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France
France (Englishi/ˈfræns/ FRANSS or /ˈfrɑːns/ FRAHNSS; French: [fʁɑ̃s] ( listen)), officially the French Republic (French: République française [ʁepyblik fʁɑ̃sɛz]), is a unitary semi-presidential republic in Western Europe with several overseas territories and islands located on other continents and in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. Metropolitan France extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea, and from the Rhine to the Atlantic Ocean. It is often referred to as l’Hexagone ("The Hexagon") because of the geometric shape of its territory. It is the largest western European country and it possesses the second-largest exclusive economic zone in the world, covering 11,035,000 km2 (4,260,000 sq mi), just behind that of the United States (11,351,000 km2 / 4,383,000 sq mi).
Over the past 500 years, France has been a major power with strong cultural, economic, military and political influence in Europe and around the world. During the 17th and 18th centuries, France colonised great parts of North America and Southeast Asia; during the 19th and early 20th centuries, France built the second largest colonial empire of the time, including large portions of North, West and Central Africa, Southeast Asia, and many Caribbean and Pacific Islands.
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Germany
Germany (i/ˈdʒɜrməni/), officially the Federal Republic of Germany (German: Bundesrepublik Deutschland, pronounced [ˈbʊndəsʁepuˌbliːk ˈdɔʏtʃlant] ( listen)), is a federal parliamentary republic in Europe. The country consists of 16 states while the capital and largest city is Berlin. Germany covers an area of 357,021 km2 and has a largely temperate seasonal climate. With 81.8 million inhabitants, it is the most populous member state and the largest economy in the European Union. It is one of the major political powers of the European continent and a technological leader in many fields.
A region named Germania, inhabited by several Germanic peoples, was documented before AD 100. During the Migration Period, the Germanic tribes expanded southward, and established successor kingdoms throughout much of Europe. Beginning in the 10th century, German territories formed a central part of the Holy Roman Empire. During the 16th century, northern German regions became the centre of the Protestant Reformation while southern and western parts remained dominated by Roman Catholic denominations, with the two factions clashing in the Thirty Years' War, marking the beginning of the Catholic–Protestant divide that has characterized German society ever since. Occupied during the Napoleonic Wars, the rise of Pan-Germanism inside the German Confederation resulted in the unification of most of the German states into the German Empire in 1871 which was Prussian dominated. After the German Revolution of 1918–1919 and the subsequent military surrender in World War I, the Empire was replaced by the Weimar Republic in 1918, and partitioned in the Treaty of Versailles. Amidst the Great Depression, the Third Reich was proclaimed in 1933. The latter period was marked by Fascism and World War II. After 1945, Germany was divided by allied occupation, and evolved into two states, East Germany and West Germany. In 1990 Germany was reunified.
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Ghana
Ghana
i/ˈɡɑːnə/ is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south. The word Ghana means "Warrior King" and is derived from the ancient Ghana Empire.
Ghana was inhabited in pre-colonial times by a number of ancient predominantly Akan kingdoms, including the inland Ashanti Empire, the Akwamu, the Akyem, the Bonoman, the Denkyira, and the Fante among others. Non-Akan states created by the Ga also existed as did states by the Dagomba. Prior to contact with Europeans trade between the Akan and various African states flourished due to Akan's gold wealth. Trade with European states began after contact with the Portuguese in the 15th century, and the British established the Gold Coast Crown colony in 1874 over parts but not all of the country.
The Gold Coast achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1957, becoming the First sub-Saharan African nation to do so from European Colonialism. The name Ghana was chosen for the new nation to reflect the ancient Empire of Ghana, which once extended throughout much of west Africa.
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Glentoran F.C.
Glentoran F.C. is a semi-professional, football club in Northern Ireland. The club was founded in 1882 and plays its home games at the Oval in east Belfast. Club colours are green, red, and black. The clubs current manager is Eddie Patterson.
Glentoran's biggest rivals are Linfield. Linfield and Glentoran are nicknamed Belfast's Big Two, as they have traditionally dominated local football in Northern Ireland since the demise of Belfast Celtic. The two play a league match on Boxing Day each year, which regularly attracts the largest attendance of the Irish League season. Glentoran have other rivalries with two of the North Belfast clubs, Crusaders F.C. and Cliftonville F.C.. Portadown F.C. are also great rivals of The Glens.
Many former Glentoran players have gone on to play for teams in England and Scotland, such as Danny Blanchflower, Peter Doherty, Bertie Peacock, Billy Bingham, Jimmy McIlroy, Terry Conroy, Tommy Jackson and Tommy Cassidy. More recent examples are Glen Little, Stuart Elliott, Andy Kirk and Andy Smith, with Elliott, Kirk and Smith going on to become members of the Northern Ireland squad.
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Greece
Greecei/ˈɡriːs/ (Greek: Ελλάδα, Ellada, IPA: [eˈlaða] ( listen) historically in Katharevousa and Ancient Greek: Ἑλλάς, Hellas, IPA: [eˈlas] and [helːás] respectively), officially the Hellenic Republic (Ελληνική Δημοκρατία, Elliniki Dimokratia, IPA: [eliniˈci ðimokraˈtia]), is a country in Southern Europe, politically considered part of Western Europe.Athens is the capital and the largest city in the country (its urban area also including Piraeus). The population of the country is around 11 million.
Greece has land borders with Albania, the Republic of Macedonia and Bulgaria to the north, and Turkey to the east. The Aegean Sea lies to the east of mainland Greece, the Ionian Sea to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. Greece has the 11th longest coastline in the world at 13,676 km (8,498 mi) in length, featuring a vast number of islands (approximately 1,400, of which 227 are inhabited), including Crete, the Dodecanese, the Cyclades, and the Ionian Islands among others. Eighty percent of Greece consists of mountains, of which Mount Olympus is the highest at 2,917 m (9,570 ft).
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Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau, officially the Republic of Guinea-Bissaui/ˈɡɪni bɪˈsaʊ/ (Portuguese: República da Guiné-Bissau, pronounced: [ʁeˈpublikɐ dɐ ɡiˈnɛ biˈsaw]), is a country in West Africa. It is bordered by Senegal to the north and Guinea to the south and east, with the Atlantic Ocean to its west. It covers 36,125 km² (nearly 14,000 sq mi) with an estimated population of 1,600,000.
Guinea-Bissau was once part of the kingdom of Gabu, as well as part of the Mali Empire. Parts of this kingdom persisted until the 18th century, while a few others were part of the Portuguese Empire since the 16th century. It then became the Portuguese colony of Portuguese Guinea in the 19th century. Upon independence, declared in 1973 and recognised in 1974, the name of its capital, Bissau, was added to the country's name to prevent confusion with the bordering Republic of Guinea. Guinea-Bissau has a history of political instability since gaining independence and no elected president has successfully served a full five-year term. On the evening of 12 April 2012, members of the country's military staged a coup and arrested the interim president and a leading presidential candidate. The military has yet to declare a current leader for the country. However, former vice chief of staff, General Mamadu Ture Kuruma took the care of the country in the transitional period and started negotiations with opposition parties.
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Hungary
Hungaryi/ˈhʌŋɡəri/ (Hungarian: Magyarország [ˈmɒɟɒrorsaːɡ] ( listen)) is a country, which is located in Central Europe. It is situated in the Carpathian Basin and is bordered by Slovakia to the north, Ukraine and Romania to the east, Serbia and Croatia to the south, Slovenia to the southwest and Austria to the west. The country's capital, and largest city, is Budapest. Hungary is a member of the European Union, NATO, the OECD, the Visegrád Group, and is a Schengen state. The official language is Hungarian, also known as Magyar, which is part of the Finno-Ugric group and is the most widely spoken non-Indo-European language in Europe.
Following a Celt (after c. 450 BC) and a Roman (AD 9 - c. 430) period, the foundation of Hungary was laid in the late 9th century by the Hungarian prince Árpád, whose great-grandson Saint Stephen I was crowned with a crown sent by the pope from Rome in 1000 AD. The Kingdom of Hungary lasted for 946 years, and at various points was regarded as one of the cultural centres of the Western world. After about 150 years of partial Ottoman occupation (1541–1699), Hungary was integrated into the Habsburg Monarchy, and later constituted half of the Austro-Hungarian dual monarchy (1867–1918).
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Italy
Italyi/ˈɪtəli/ (Italian: Italia [iˈtaːlja]), officially the Italian Republic or the Republic of Italy (Italian: Repubblica italiana), is a unitary parliamentary republic in south-central Europe. To the north, it borders France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia along the Alps. To the south, it consists of the entirety of the Italian Peninsula, Sicily, Sardinia–the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea–and many other smaller islands. The independent states of San Marino and the Vatican City are enclaves within Italy, while Campione d'Italia is an Italian exclave in Switzerland. The territory of Italy covers some 301,338 km2 (116,347 sq mi) and is influenced by a temperate seasonal climate. With 60.6 million inhabitants, it is the fifth most populous country in Europe, and the 23rd most populous in the world.
Rome, the capital of Italy, was for centuries a political and religious centre of Western civilisation as the capital of the Roman Empire and site of the Holy See. After the decline of the Roman Empire, Italy endured numerous invasions by foreign peoples, from Germanic tribes such as the Lombards and Ostrogoths, to the Byzantines and later, the Normans, among others. Centuries later, Italy became the birthplace of Maritime republics and the Renaissance, an immensely fruitful intellectual movement that would prove to be integral in shaping the subsequent course of European thought.
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Japan
Japani/dʒəˈpæn/ (Japanese: 日本 Nihon or Nippon; formally 日本国 
Nippon-koku or Nihon-koku, literally the State of Japan) is an island nation in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south. The characters that make up Japan's name mean "sun-origin", which is why Japan is sometimes referred to as the "Land of the Rising Sun".
Japan is an archipelago of 6,852 islands. The four largest islands are Honshū, Hokkaidō, Kyūshū and Shikoku, together accounting for ninety-seven percent of Japan's land area. Japan has the world's tenth-largest population, with over 127 million people. The Greater Tokyo Area, which includes the de facto capital city of Tokyo and several surrounding prefectures, is the largest metropolitan area in the world, with over 30 million residents.
Archaeological research indicates that people lived in Japan as early as the Upper Paleolithic period. The first written mention of Japan is in Chinese history texts from the 1st century AD. Influence from other nations followed by long periods of isolation has characterized Japan's history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, victory in the First Sino-Japanese War, the Russo-Japanese War and World War I allowed Japan to expand its empire during a period of increasing militarism. The Second Sino-Japanese War of 1937 expanded into part of World War II in 1941, which came to an end in 1945 following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Since adopting its revised constitution in 1947, Japan has maintained a unitary constitutional monarchy with an emperor and an elected parliament called the Diet.
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Luxembourg
Luxembourg (i/ˈlʌksəmbɜrɡ/ LUKS-əm-burg), officially the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (Luxembourgish: Groussherzogtum Lëtzebuerg, French: Grand-Duché de Luxembourg, German: Großherzogtum Luxemburg, Dutch: Groothertogdom Luxemburg), is a landlocked country in western Europe, bordered by Belgium, France, and Germany. It has two principal regions: the Oesling in the North as part of the Ardennes massif, and the Gutland ("good country") in the south. Luxembourg has a population of over half a million people in an area of approximately 2,586 square kilometres (998 sq mi). A representative democracy with a constitutional monarch, it is ruled by a grand duke. It is now the world's only remaining sovereign grand duchy. The country has a highly developed economy, with the world's highest GDP (nominal) per capita according to the IMF. Its historic and strategic importance dates back to its founding as a Roman era fortress site and Frankish count's castle site in the Early Middle Ages. It was an important bastion along the Spanish Road when Spain was the principal European power influencing the whole western hemisphere and beyond in the 16th–17th centuries.
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Macau
Coordinates: 22°10′N 113°33′E / 22.167°N 113.55°E / 22.167; 113.55
Macau (Chinese: 澳門), also spelled Macao ( /məˈkaʊ/), is one of the two special administrative regions of the People's Republic of China, the other being Hong Kong. Macau lies on the western side of the Pearl River Delta across from Hong-Kong which is to the east, bordering Guangdong province to the north and facing the South China Sea to the east and south.
The territory's economy is heavily dependent on gambling and tourism, but also includes manufacturing.
Macau is a former Portuguese colony, and is both the first and last European colony in China. Portuguese traders first settled in Macau in the 16th century and subsequently administered the region until the handover on 20 December 1999. The Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration and the Basic Law of Macau stipulate that Macau operates with a high degree of autonomy until at least 2049, fifty years after the transfer. Macau was first lent by the Chinese empire as a trading port in the 16th century, and had to administer the city under Chinese authority and sovereignty. In 1887, Macau became a colony of the Portuguese empire and its sovereignty transferred to the Portuguese.
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Mexico
Mexico (i/ˈmɛksɨkoʊ/; Spanish: México, IPA: [ˈmexiko] ( listen)), officially the United Mexican States (Spanish: Estados Unidos Mexicanos (help·info)), is a federal constitutional republic in North America. It is bordered on the north by the United States of America; on the south and west by the Pacific Ocean; on the southeast by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea; and on the east by the Gulf of Mexico. Covering almost two million square kilometres (over 760,000 sq mi), Mexico is the fifth largest country in the Americas by total area and the thirteenth largest independent nation in the world. With an estimated population of over 113 million, it is the eleventh most populous country and the most populous Spanish-speaking country. Mexico is a federation comprising thirty-one states and a Federal District, the capital city.
In Pre-Columbian Mexico many cultures matured into advanced civilizations such as the Olmec, the Toltec, the Teotihuacan, the Zapotec, the Maya and the Aztec before the first contact with Europeans. In 1521, Spain conquered and colonized the territory from its base in México-Tenochtitlan, which was administered as the Viceroyalty of New Spain. This territory would eventually become Mexico as the colony's independence was recognized in 1821. The post-independence period was characterized by economic instability, the Mexican-American War and territorial cession to the United States, a civil war, two empires and a domestic dictatorship. The latter led to the Mexican Revolution in 1910, which culminated with the promulgation of the 1917 Constitution and the emergence of the country's current political system. Elections held in July 2000 marked the first time that an opposition party won the presidency from the Institutional Revolutionary Party.
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Netherlands
The Netherlands (i/ˈnɛðərləndz/; Dutch: Nederland [ˈneːdə(r)lɑnt] or [ˈneɪ̯də(r)lɑnt] (
listen); West Frisian: Nederlân; Papiamento: Hulanda) is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located mainly in North-West Europe and with some islands in the Caribbean. Mainland Netherlands borders the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south, and Germany to the east, and shares maritime borders with Belgium, Germany and the United Kingdom. It is a parliamentary democracy organised as a unitary state. The country capital is Amsterdam and the seat of government is The Hague. The Netherlands in its entirety is often referred to as Holland, although North and South Holland are actually only two of its twelve provinces (a case of pars pro toto; see terminology of "the Netherlands").
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Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland (Irish: Tuaisceart Éireann pronounced [ˈt̪ˠuəʃcəɾˠt̪ˠ ˈeːɾʲən̪ˠ] ( listen), Ulster Scots: Norlin Airlann or Norlin Airlan) is a part of the United Kingdom in the north-east of the island of Ireland. It shares a border with the Republic of Ireland to the south and west. As of 2001, its population was 1,685,000, constituting about 30% of the island's total population and about 3% of the population of the United Kingdom. Since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, Northern Ireland is largely self-governing. According to the agreement, Northern Ireland co-operates with the rest of Ireland – from which it was partitioned in 1921 — on some policy areas, while other areas are reserved for the Government of the United Kingdom, though the Republic of Ireland "may put forward views and proposals".
Northern Ireland was for many years the site of a violent and bitter inter-communal conflict — the Troubles — which was caused by divisions between nationalists, who are predominantly Roman Catholic, and unionists, who are predominantly Protestant. Unionists want Northern Ireland to remain as a part of the United Kingdom, and generally see themselves as British, while nationalists wish for it to be politically reunited with the rest of Ireland, independent of British rule, and generally see themselves as Irish. Additionally, people from both sides of the community may describe themselves as Northern Irish. Since 1998, most of the paramilitary groups involved in the Troubles have ceased their armed campaigns.
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Paraguay
Paraguay (i/ˈpɛərəɡwaɪ/, PAIR-ə-gwy), officially the Republic of Paraguay (Spanish: República del Paraguay [reˈpuβlika ðel paɾaˈɣwai], Guaraní: Tetã Paraguái [teˈtã paɾaˈɣwaj]), is a landlocked country in South America. It is bordered by Argentina to the south and southwest, Brazil to the east and northeast, and Bolivia to the northwest. Paraguay lies on both banks of the Paraguay River, which runs through the center of the country from north to south. Due to its central location in South America, it is sometimes referred to as Corazón de América, or the Heart of America.
The Guaraní have been living in Paraguay since before the arrival of Europeans in the 16th century, when Paraguay became part of the Spanish colonial empire. Following independence from Spain in 1811, Paraguay was ruled by a series of dictators who followed isolationist and protectionist policies. This development was truncated by the disastrous Paraguayan War (1864–1870) in which the country lost 60% to 70% of its population and large amounts of territory. During a large part of the 20th century, Paraguay was ruled by Alfredo Stroessner, who led one of South America's longest lived military dictatorships. In 1989 Stroessner was toppled and free elections were celebrated in 1993. In 1994 Paraguay joined Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay to found Mercosur.
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Portugal
Portugali/ˈpɔrtʃʉɡəl/ (Portuguese: Portugal, IPA: [puɾtuˈɣaɫ]), officially the Portuguese Republic (Portuguese: República Portuguesa) is a country situated in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula . Portugal is the westernmost country of mainland Europe, and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the West and South and by Spain to the North and East. The Atlantic archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira are part of Portugal. The country is named after its second largest city, Porto, whose Latin name was Portus Cale.
The land within the borders of the current Portuguese Republic has been continuously settled since prehistoric times: occupied by Celts like the Gallaeci and the Lusitanians, integrated into the Roman Republic and later settled by Germanic peoples such as the Suebi, Swabians, Vandals and the Visigoths. In the 8th century most of the Iberian Peninsula was conquered by Moorish invaders professing Islam, which were later expelled by the Knights Templar under the Order of Christ. During the Christian Reconquista, Portugal established itself as an independent kingdom from León in 1139, claiming to be the oldest European nation state.
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Republic of Ireland
Ireland (/ˈaɪərlənd/ or /ˈɑrlənd/; Irish: Éire, pronounced [ˈeːɾʲə] ( listen)) is a sovereign state in Europe occupying about five-sixths of the island of Ireland. Its capital is Dublin. The population of the state was 4.59 million in 2011. It is a constitutional republic governed as a parliamentary democracy, with an elected president serving as head of state. In the 1937 constitution, the name of the state is given as simply "Ireland". The Constitution of Ireland (Article 4) and the Republic of Ireland Act 1948 provides that the "Republic of Ireland" (Irish: Poblacht na hÉireann) is "the description of the state".
Ireland is a member of the European Union, the Council of Europe, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Trade Organisation and the United Nations. A developed country with the seventh highest Human Development Index, Ireland is also highly ranked for press freedom, economic freedom and democracy and political freedom.
The modern Irish state was established in 1922 as the Irish Free State, a dominion within the British Empire, following the Anglo-Irish Treaty which brought an end to the Irish War of Independence. The partition of Ireland had already been provided for in previous British legislation in 1921 in response to opposition to Irish Home Rule or independence by Unionists, who formed a majority in the north-eastern part of the country. Six of the nine counties in the northern province of Ulster were established under that legislation as Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom, with which the Irish state shares its only land border. The state is otherwise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, with the Celtic Sea to the south, St George's Channel to the south east, and the Irish Sea to the east.
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Romania
Romania (i/roʊˈmeɪniə/ roh-MAY-nee-ə; dated: Roumania; or Rumania;Romanian: România [romɨˈni.a] ( listen)) is a country located at the crossroads of Central and Southeastern Europe, on the Lower Danube, within and outside the Carpathian arch, bordering on the Black Sea. Romania shares a border with Hungary and Serbia to the west, Ukraine and Moldova to the northeast and east, and Bulgaria to the south.
At 238,400 square kilometers (92,000 sq mi), Romania is the ninth largest country of the European Union by area, and has the seventh largest population of the European Union with over 19 million people. Its capital and largest city is Bucharest, the tenth largest city in the EU with about two million people.
The Kingdom of Romania emerged when the principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia were united under Prince Alexander Ioan Cuza in 1859. Independence from the Ottoman Empire was declared on 9 May 1877, and was internationally recognized the following year. At the end of World War I, Transylvania, Bukovina and Bessarabia united with the Kingdom of Romania. Greater Romania emerged into an era of progression and prosperity that would continue until World War II. By the end of the War, many north-eastern areas of Romania's territories were occupied by the Soviet Union, and Romania forcibly became a socialist republic and a member of the Warsaw Pact.
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S.C. Braga
Sporting Clube de Braga (Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈspɔɾtĩɡ ˈklube de ˈbɾaɡɐ]) (Euronext: SCB), commonly known as Sporting de Braga or just Braga, is a Portuguese sports club, from the city of Braga. Its football team plays at the AXA Stadium, also known as The Quarry, which was built for UEFA Euro 2004. Domestically, Braga won the 1965–1966 Portuguese Cup. In the 2000s, the club gradually became one of Portugal's most successful clubs after the Big Three and have also competed with some success in European competitions, winning the last ever UEFA Intertoto Cup in 2008 and reaching the final of the UEFA Europa League in 2011. After finishing in second place for the only time to date in the 2009-10 Primeira Liga, Sporting de Braga achieved a place in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League for the first time in its history by eliminating Celtic FC and Sevilla FC. Sporting de Braga is currently sponsored by Italian sportswear company Macron.
Braga, who owe their Sporting Clube tag to the better known Sporting Clube de Portugal, after whom they were named, have been known as Arsenal do Minho and changed their kits from green and white to their Arsenal-style red during the 1945–46 (with the reserve squad) and the 1946–47 (with the main team) seasons due to their president José Antunes Guimarães who had business connections in London and was an Arsenal fan (this is one version of the story: the other one says that Josef Szabo, a Hungarian coach who loved Arsenal's playing style asked the president to change the green and white uniform to a Arsenal-style red). In that year (1947) they won the Second division title reaching the First division for the first time. Braga even renamed their youth team Arsenal de Braga.
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Santa Maria de Belém
Santa Maria de Belém, or just Belém (Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈsɐ̃tɐ mɐˈɾiɐ dɨ bɨˈlɐ̃ȷ̃]), whose name is derived from the Portuguese word for Bethlehem, is a civil parish of the municipality of Lisbon, in central Portugal. At the mouth of the Tagus River it is located six kilometres west of the city centre and two kilometres west of Ponte 25 de Abril (25th of April Bridge).
The first settlement of this region dates back to the Paleolithic, from archaeological evidence discovered along margins of the river courses.
With the Kingdom of Portugal established, during the reign of Afonso III of Portugal the royal inventory (Portuguese: Inquirições) determined that settlement was dispersed, occupying many of the lowlands lands on the avails of agriculture. The connection of Belém to the neighbouring Lisbon was cemented by a bridge, at Alcântara.
Belém's proximity to the Tagus River also influenced the development of commercial activities in the small village, especially in the Aldeia do Restelo, which attracted marines and seafarers, rather travelling to Lisbon. In the 14th century, settled Moors cultivated the lands and serviced the city; other Moors, both free and slave, would work in the fishing industry. The settlement of Restelo slowly grew towards Lisbon.
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Scotland
Scotland (Scottish Gaelic: Alba ([ˈalˠ̪apə] listen (help·info))) is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Occupying the northern third of the island of Great Britain, it shares a border with England to the south and is bounded by the North Sea to the east, the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west, and the North Channel and Irish Sea to the southwest. In addition to the mainland, Scotland constitutes over 790 islands including the Northern Isles and the Hebrides.
Edinburgh, the country's capital and second largest city, is one of Europe's largest financial centres. Edinburgh was the hub of the Scottish Enlightenment of the 18th century, which transformed Scotland into one of the commercial, intellectual and industrial powerhouses of Europe. Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, was once one of the world's leading industrial cities and now lies at the centre of the Greater Glasgow conurbation. Scottish waters consist of a large sector of the North Atlantic and the North Sea, containing the largest oil reserves in the European Union. This has given Aberdeen, the third largest city in Scotland, the title of Europe's oil capital.
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Seixal Municipality
Seixal (Portuguese pronunciation: [sɐjˈʃaɫ]) is a municipality in Portugal with a total area of 96.0 km² and a total population of 161,327 inhabitants.
The municipality is composed of 6 parishes, and is located in Setúbal District.
The present Mayor is Alfredo José Monteiro da Costa, elected by the Unitarian Democratic Coalition and the President of the Municipal Assembly is Eufrázio Filipe Garcez José, also elected by the Unitarian Democratic Coalition.
The seat of the municipality is the city of Seixal which is crossed by the river from Lisbon. It is located in Setúbal District and next to the Rio Judeu ("Jewish River"), the name given to a lagoon formed by the Tagus River.
The name "Seixal" comes from a type of smooth stone (seixo) that is found in rivers, and the city is named after these stones. The city was an important vacation resort for aristocracy from nearby Lisbon during the 18th century, namely in Quinta da Fidalga.
Seixal is also known for being one of the few cities in Portugal under the power of the communist party for 20 years.
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Serbia
Serbiai/ˈsɜrbiə/, officially the Republic of Serbia (Serbian: Република Србија / Republika Srbija, pronounced [rɛpǔblika sř̩bija]), is a landlocked country located at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, covering the southern part of the Carpathian basin and the central part of the Balkans. Serbia borders Hungary to the north; Romania and Bulgaria to the east; the Republic of Macedonia to the south; and Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro to the west; additionally, it borders Albania through Kosovo, whose status as part of Serbia is disputed. Serbia covers an area of 88,361 km2 and has a population of just over 7.1 million, while the capital and largest city is Belgrade.
The arrival of the Serbs to the Balkans in the 7th century, established several states, eventually forming the Serbian Empire in the 14th century. By the 16th century, Serbia was conquered and occupied by the Ottoman Empire, at times interrupted by the Habsburgs. In the early 19th century the Serbian revolution re-established the country as the region's first constitutional monarchy, which subsequently expanded its territory and pioneered the abolition of feudalism in the Balkans. The former Habsburg crownland of Vojvodina united with Serbia in 1918. Following World War I, Serbia formed Yugoslavia with other South Slavic peoples which existed in several forms up until 2006, when the National Assembly of Serbia declared independence and the legal succession to the former State Union. In February 2008 the parliament of UNMIK-governed Kosovo, Serbia's southern province, declared independence, with mixed responses from international governments.
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Slovenia
Slovenia (i/sloʊˈviːniə/ sloh-VEE-nee-ə, Slovene: Slovenija), officially the Republic of Slovenia (Republika Slovenija, [reˈpublika sloˈveːnija]) is a Slavic nation state, situated in South-Central Europe, at the crossroad of main European cultural and trade routes. It borders Italy to the west, Austria to the north, Croatia to the south and southeast, and Hungary to the northeast. It covers 20,273 square kilometres (7,827 sq mi) and has a population of 2.05 million. It is a parliamentary republic, member of the European Union and NATO. Relative to its geography, history, economy, culture, and language, it is a very diverse country distinguished by a transitional character. It is characterised by a high economic and social level. Its capital and largest city is Ljubljana.
The territory of Slovenia is mainly hilly or mountainous and has an exceptionally high landscape and biological diversity and a mosaic structure, which are a result of natural attributes and the long-lasting presence of humans. Four major European geographic units interweave here: the Alps, the Dinaric Alps, the Mediterranean, with a small portion of coastline along the Adriatic Sea, and the Pannonian Plain. The climate is temperate and significantly influenced by the variety of territory, with a strong interaction of the continental climate, the sub-Mediterranean climate and Alpine climate across most of the country. The country is one of the water-richest in Europe, with a dense river network, a rich aquifer system, and significant karstic underground watercourses. Over half of the territory is covered by forest.
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Spain
Spain (i/ˈspeɪn/ SPAYN; Spanish: España, pronounced: [esˈpaɲa] ( listen)), officially the Kingdom of Spain (Spanish: Reino de España), is a sovereign state and a member of the European Union located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. Its mainland is bordered to the south and east by the Mediterranean Sea except for a small land boundary with the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar; to the north and north east by France, Andorra, and the Bay of Biscay; and to the northwest and west by the Atlantic Ocean and Portugal.
Spanish territory also includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean off the African coast, and two autonomous cities in North Africa, Ceuta and Melilla, that border Morocco. Furthermore, the town of Llívia is a Spanish exclave situated inside French territory. With an area of 504,030 square kilometres (194,610 sq mi), it is the second largest country in Western Europe and the European Union after France, and the fourth largest country in Europe after Russia, Ukraine and France.
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Sweden
Sweden (i/ˈswiːdən/ SWEE-dən; Swedish: Sverige [ˈsværjɛ] ( listen)), officially the Kingdom of Sweden (Swedish: Konungariket Sverige (help·info)), is a Nordic country on the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe. Sweden borders with Norway and Finland, and is connected to Denmark by a bridge-tunnel across the Øresund.
At 450,295 square kilometres (173,860 sq mi), Sweden is the third largest country in the European Union by area, with a total population of about 9.4 million. Sweden has a low population density of 21 inhabitants per square kilometre (54 /sq mi) with the population mostly concentrated to the southern half of the country. About 85% of the population live in urban areas. Sweden's capital city is Stockholm, which is also the largest city.
Sweden emerged as an independent and unified country during the Middle Ages. In the 17th century, the country expanded its territories to form the Swedish Empire. The empire grew to be one of the great powers of Europe in the 17th and early 18th century. Most of the conquered territories outside the Scandinavian Peninsula were lost during the 18th and 19th centuries. The eastern half of Sweden, present-day Finland, was lost to Russia in 1809. The last war in which Sweden was directly involved was in 1814, when Sweden by military means forced Norway into a personal union. Since then, Sweden has been at peace, practicing "non-participation in military alliances during peacetime and neutrality during wartime". However, Sweden has been a member of the European Union since 1 January 1995 and is a member of the OECD.
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Switzerland
Switzerland (German: die Schweiz[ˈʃvaɪts]; French: Suisse [sɥis(ə)]; Italian: Svizzera [ˈzvit͡sːɛra]; Romansh: Svizra [ˈʒviːtsrɐ] or [ˈʒviːtsʁːɐ]), in its full name the Swiss Confederation (Latin: Confoederatio Helvetica, hence its abbreviation CH), is a federal republic consisting of 26 cantons, with Bern as the seat of the federal authorities. The country is situated in western Europe, where it is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east.
Switzerland is a landlocked country geographically divided between the Alps, the Swiss Plateau and the Jura, spanning an area of 41,285 km2 (15,940 sq mi). While the Alps occupy the greater part of the territory, the Swiss population of approximately 8 million people is concentrated mostly on the Plateau, where the largest cities are to be found. Among them are the two global cities and economic centres of Zurich and Geneva.
The Swiss Confederation has a long history of armed neutrality—it has not been in a state of war internationally since 1815—and did not join the United Nations until 2002. It pursues, however, an active foreign policy and is frequently involved in peace-building processes around the world. Switzerland is also the birthplace of the Red Cross and home to a large number of international organizations, including the second largest UN office. On the European level, it is a founding member of the European Free Trade Association and is part of the Schengen Area – although it is notably not a member of the European Union, nor the European Economic Area.
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Ukraine
Ukraine (i/juːˈkreɪn/ yew-KRAYN; Ukrainian: Україна, transliterated: Ukrayina, [ukrɑˈjinɑ]; Russian: Украина; Crimean Tatar: Ukraina) is a country in Central and Eastern Europe. Ukraine borders the Russian Federation to the east and northeast, Belarus to the northwest, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary to the west, Romania and Moldova to the southwest, and the Black Sea and Sea of Azov to the south and southeast, respectively. It has an area of 603,628 km², making it the second largest contiguous country on the European continent, after the Russian Federation.
According to a popular and well established theory, the medieval state of Kievan Rus was established by the Varangians in the 9th century as the first historically recorded East Slavic state which emerged as a powerful nation in the Middle Ages until it disintegrated in the 12th century. By the middle of the 14th century, Ukrainian territories were under the rule of three external powers—the Golden Horde, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and the Kingdom of Poland. After the Great Northern War (1700–1721) Ukraine was divided between a number of regional powers and, by the 19th century, the largest part of Ukraine was integrated into the Russian Empire with the rest under Austro-Hungarian control. A chaotic period of incessant warfare ensued, with several internationally recognized attempts at independence from 1917 to 1921, following World War I and the Russian Civil War. Ukraine emerged from its own civil war, and on December 30, 1922 Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic became one of the founding republics of the Soviet Union. The Ukrainian SSR's territory was enlarged westward during the civil war shortly before, and after World War II, and further south in 1954 with the Crimea transfer. In 1945, the Ukrainian SSR became one of the founding members of the United Nations.
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United Kingdom
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK, or Britain) is a sovereign state located off the north-western coast of continental Europe. The country includes the island of Great Britain, the north-eastern part of the island of Ireland and many smaller islands. Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK that shares a land border with another sovereign state—the Republic of Ireland. Apart from this land border the UK is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, the English Channel and the Irish Sea.
The United Kingdom is a unitary state governed under a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary system, with its seat of government in the capital city of London. It is a country in its own right and consists of four countries: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. There are three devolved administrations, each with varying powers, based in Belfast, Edinburgh and Cardiff, the capitals of Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Associated with the UK, but not constitutionally part of it, are three Crown Dependencies. The United Kingdom has fourteen overseas territories. These are remnants of the British Empire which, at its height in 1922, encompassed almost a quarter of the world's land surface and was the largest empire in history. British influence can still be observed in the language, culture and legal systems of many of its former territories.
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United States
The United States of America (commonly abbreviated to the United States, the U.S., the USA, America, and the States) is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district. The country is situated mostly in central North America, where its forty-eight contiguous states and Washington, D.C., the capital district, lie between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, bordered by Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. The state of Alaska is in the northwest of the continent, with Canada to the east and Russia to the west, across the Bering Strait. The state of Hawaii is an archipelago in the mid-Pacific. The country also possesses several territories in the Pacific and Caribbean.
At 3.79 million square miles (9.83 million km2) and with over 312 million people, the United States is the third or fourth largest country by total area, and the third largest by both land area and population. It is one of the world's most ethnically diverse and multicultural nations, the product of large-scale immigration from many countries. The U.S. economy is the world's largest national economy, with an estimated 2011 GDP of $15.1 trillion (22% of nominal global GDP and over 19% of global GDP at purchasing-power parity). Per capita income is the world's sixth-highest.
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Uruguay
Uruguayi/ˈjʊərəɡwaɪ/, officially the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, sometimes the Eastern Republic of Uruguay; (Spanish: República Oriental del Uruguay pronounced: [re̞ˈpuβ̞lika o̞ɾje̞n̪ˈt̪al̪ d̪e̞l uɾuˈɰwai̯]) is a country in the southeastern part of South America. It is home to 3.3 million people, of whom 1.8 million live in the capital Montevideo and its metropolitan area. An estimated 88% of the population are of European ancestry.
Except for the recent union of Timoteo Domínguez Island and Argentina's Martín García Island, Uruguay's only land border is with Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, to the north. To the west lies the Uruguay River and the estuary of the Río de la Plata to the southwest. To the southeast lies the southern part of the Atlantic Ocean. With an area of approximately 176,000 square kilometres (68,000 sq mi), Uruguay is the second-smallest nation in South America by area, after Suriname.
Colonia del Sacramento, one of the oldest European settlements in the country, was founded by the Portuguese in 1680. Montevideo was founded by the Spanish in the early 18th century as a military stronghold. Uruguay won its independence in 1811–28 following a three-way struggle between the claims of Spain, Argentina and Brazil. It is a constitutional democracy, with a president who is both the head of state and the head of government.
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Alan Kardec
Alan Kardec de Souza Pereira Junior, usually known as Alan Kardec (born January 12, 1989 in Barra Mansa, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil), is a Brazilian football striker currently playing for Brasileirão side Santos, on loan from Benfica of the Portuguese Liga. He is named after the systematizer of Spiritism, Allan Kardec.
On February 14, 2007, in Manaus, Alan Kardec played his first match for Vasco, when his club beat Fast Clube 2–1 for the Copa do Brasil. On April 11, 2007, he scored his first goal for Vasco, when his club and Botafogo drew 4–4 in a Campeonato Carioca match. On July 21, 2007, Alan Kardec scored his first Série A goal, when Vasco beat Atlético Mineiro 4–0. He played 26 Série A matches and scored eight goals in 2007, while in 2008, he played 19 matches and scored two goals in that competition.
He was loaned to Internacional on September 1, 2009. Alan Kardec played his first game as an Internacional player on October 28, 2009, a Série A game against São Paulo at Estádio do Morumbi, in which he came as a substitute for Fabiano Eller.
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Alberto Zozaya
Alberto Maximo Zozaya (born April 13, 1908 in Gualeguaychú, Entre Ríos) is a former Argentine football striker, he played most of his career for Estudiantes de La Plata and represented the Argentina national football team.
Alberto "Don Padilla" Zozaya started his career in the early 1930s with Estudiantes. He was the first player to score a goal in the professional era of Argentine football, which began in 1931.
Zozaya became an integral part of the Estudiantes team of the 1930s nicknamed "Los Profesores" (The Professors). In 1933 he scored 33 goals in the league to become the top scorer in the Primera División Argentina and the whole of South America.
In 1937 Zozaya played in the South American Championship 1937 helping Argentina to win the title with a contribution of 5 goals.
In 1939 Zozaya moved to Racing Club de Avellaneda but he only played 2 games before moving to Bella Vista in Uruguay but he did not settle there either and retired at the end of the 1940 season.
After retiring as a player Zozaya went into management, he was manager of Portuguese side Benfica from 1952-1953. He was also manager of Gimnasia de La Plata.
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Aldair
Aldair, full name Aldair Nascimento dos Santos (born November 30, 1965 in Ilhéus) is a retired Brazilian footballer who was part of the Brazilian national team that won the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
He spent the most part of his career at Italian club A.S. Roma, who retired his No.6 jersey number when he left the team in 2003.
Aldair started playing at Flamengo where he won the most important title in Brazil, the Campeonato Brasileiro. He moved to Europe in 1989, playing with Benfica and then AS Roma, staying there until 2003 and playing over 400 Serie A matches with the club, which retired his shirt number, 6. He then briefly joined Genoa CFC. On July 2005, Aldair announced plans of playing for Rio Branco Atlético Clube, and play two games, in the estadual championship. Rio Branco was champion in this championship.
In 1994, he reached the pinnacle of his career when he played for the Brazilian squad that won the 1994 FIFA World Cup. He also played in the 1998 finals. In total, he appeared 81 times for Brazil, scoring three goals.
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Alfredo Valadas
Alfredo Valadas Mendes (born 16 February 1912 - deceased) was a former Portuguese footballer,who played as forward. Valadas played for both Lisbon giants Sporting and Benfica.
Valadas made his national team debut against Yugoslavia 3 May 1932 in Lisbon and scored 1 goal in a 3-2 win. He gained 6 caps and scored 2 goals.
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André Almeida
André Gomes Magalhães de Almeida (born 10 September 1990 in Lisbon) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica mainly as a midfielder.
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António Simões
António José Simões da Costa (Portuguese pronunciation: [ɐ̃ˈtɔniu siˈmõȷ̃ʃ]); born Corroios, 14 December 1943) is a Portuguese footballer and a current coach. He played as a left winger for Benfica, from 1961/62 to 1974/75. With only 1.58 m of height, he is seen as the first "Giant Gnome" of Portuguese football, before Rui Barros. He is the current assistant manager of the Iran national football team.
He won the titles of National Champion for Benfica, in 1962/63, 1963/64, 1964/65, 1966/67, 1967/68, 1968/69, 1970/71, 1971/72, 1972/73 and 1974/75, and the Cup of Portugal, in 1962, 1964, 1969, 1970 and 1972. Simões was European Champion for S.L. Benfica, in 1962, at the 5–3 win over Real Madrid, aged only 18.
Simões missed the team that reached the Independence Brazil Cup final, in 1972, because of an injury, and had his last game, at 13 October 1973, in a 2–2 draw with Bulgaria, in the World Cup qualifyings. He left Benfica in 1975, moving to the U.S., where he signed with the Boston Minutemen of the North American Soccer League. He spent two seasons in Boston before moving to the San Jose Earthquakes in 1976. He also played for during the 1975-1976 season. He finished the 1977 season in San Jose, then played for the Dallas Tornado in 1979.[1]
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António Veloso
António Augusto da Silva Veloso (born 31 January 1957) is a retired Portuguese footballer who played most notably with Benfica. A gritty defender who could appear in the flanks and on occasion in the middle, he played for his main club during almost two professional decades.
An international for nearly 15 years, Veloso represented Portugal at Euro 1984.
Born in São João da Madeira, Veloso starting playing football with hometown A.D. Sanjoanense, then moved to S.C. Beira-Mar for a further two seasons.
He joined Portuguese League giants S.L. Benfica in 1980–81, and was an everpresent fixture until his retirement, helping the capital side to seven leagues and five cups. Veloso also played in the UEFA Cup final in 1982–83, as Benfica lost to R.S.C. Anderlecht 1–2 on aggregate and, most notably, in the 1987–88 European Champions Cup final, where he missed the penalty shootout attempt that gave PSV Eindhoven the final win (5–6).
An injury left him out of the team that surprisingly reached the 1990 European Cup final, lost to A.C. Milan. Veloso retired at 38, after 15 seasons with Benfica and more than 500 overall appearances. He subsequently became a coach, managing Benfica's seniors late in 2001–02, then moving to its B team, which folded soon after.
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Artur Moraes
Artur Guilherme Moraes Gusmão or simply Artur (born 25 January 1981), is a Brazilian footballer who plays as a goalkeeper. He currently plays for Benfica. After a good display in the first half of the 2011-2012 season, he has been nicknamed by Benfica fans Rei Artur (King Arthur).
Artur started his career at Paulista. In 2003 he was loaned to Cruzeiro, who signed him in definitive in 2004. He was on loan to Coritiba for the 2006 and 2007 season. He was the first choice keeper in 2006 season, ahead Kleber and Rodrigo. But in 2007 season Édson Bastos became the first choice.
Artur signed a two year contact with Siena on 4 January 2008 after his contract with Cruzeiro had expired. On 30 January, he was loaned to Cesena.
On 25 June 2008, Artur completed a transfer to Roma from Siena along with his team mate Simone Loria in an exchange deal which saw Roma goalkeeper Gianluca Curci move to Siena in a co-ownership deal and Roma midfielder Ahmed Barusso move on loan to the Tuscan based club. Daniele Galloppa, owned by both Roma & Siena, also became a Siena player to all effects as part of the deal. He made his unofficial debut in the first pre-season friendly of Roma, when they suffered a 3–1 defeat to Steaua Bucharest.
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Austria
Austria (i/ˈɒstriə/ or /ˈɔːstriə/; German: Österreich [ˈøːstɐˌʁaɪç] ( listen)), officially the Republic of Austria (German: Republik Österreich (help·info)), is a landlocked country of roughly 8.47 million people in Central Europe. It is bordered by the Czech Republic and Germany to the north, Hungary and Slovakia to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. The territory of Austria covers 83,855 square kilometres (32,377 sq mi) and has a temperate and alpine climate. Austria's terrain is highly mountainous due to the presence of the Alps; only 32% of the country is below 500 metres (1,640 ft), and its highest point is 3,798 metres (12,461 ft). The majority of the population speak local Austro-Bavarian dialects of German as their native language, and German in its standard form is the country's official language. Other local official languages are Burgenland Croatian, Hungarian and Slovene.
The origins of modern-day Austria date back to the time of the Habsburg dynasty when the vast majority of the country was a part of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Austria became one of the great powers of Europe and, in response to the coronation of Napoleon I as the Emperor of the French, the Austrian Empire was officially proclaimed in 1804. In 1867, the Austrian Empire was reformed into Austria-Hungary.
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Axel Witsel
Axel Thomas Witsel (born 12 January 1989 in Liège) is a Belgian football player who plays for Benfica. His natural position is centre midfield and can also play attacking midfielder, but he came into the first team as a right-winger. His father has roots in Martinique (French Caribbean) and is a former football player, and his mother is Belgian.
On 17 September 2006 a 17-year-old Witsel made his debut with Standard Liège during a competitive game against FC Brussels when he replaced Steven Defour in the 89th minute. Eleven days later he made his European debut as a substitute.
During the 2007–08 season, at 18 years of age, he was a key member in the squad of Standard Liège, winners of the Belgian League title that year. During this year, he formed a very young midfield together with other Belgian talents Marouane Fellaini and Steven Defour. In the following season he scored the winning goal from the penalty spot in a two-legged playoff to decide the Championship.
On 30 August 2009, Witsel sparked controversy when he broke Marcin Wasilewski's leg by stamping on his ankle during the match between Anderlecht and Standard. Following the tackle, Witsel protested the red card, claiming that it was an accident without intent, before being sent off the pitch. He soon apologised, but was the subject of criticism from several media outlets and numerous death threats from angry Anderlecht and Poland fans. The initial ban until 23 November by the Belgian Football Association, was later reduced on appeal to eight matches.
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Bruno César
Bruno César Zanaki, usually called Bruno César (born 3 November 1988 in Santa Bárbara d'Oeste, São Paulo) is a Brazilian football second striker, that currently plays for Benfica. He scored his first Champions League goal on 27 September 2011.
César received his first international call up by Brazil manager Mano Menezes for international friendlies against the Gabon and Egypt. He debuted for Brazil in a 2-0 win against Gabon on 10 November 2011.
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Béla Guttmann
Béla Guttmann (Hungarian pronunciation: [ˈbeːlɒ ˈɡutmɒnː]; 27 January 1899 – 28 August 1981) was a Jewish Hungarian footballer and coach. He played as a midfielder for MTK Hungária FC, SC Hakoah Wien, Hungary and several clubs in the United States. However he is perhaps best remembered as a coach and manager of some the world’s leading football teams, including AC Milan, São Paulo FC, FC Porto, SL Benfica and C.A. Peñarol. His greatest success came with SL Benfica when he guided them to two successive European Cup wins in 1961 and in 1962.
Together with Márton Bukovi and Gusztáv Sebes, Guttmann formed a triumvirate of radical Hungarian coaches who pioneered the 4–2–4 formation and he is also credited with mentoring Eusébio. However throughout his career he was never far from controversy. Widely travelled, as both a player and coach, he rarely stayed at a club longer than two seasons, and was quoted as saying the third season is fatal. He was sacked at AC Milan while they were top of Serie A and he walked out on SL Benfica after they refused a request for a pay rise, purportedly leaving the club with a curse as he left. He also earned a reputation for his self confidence and his brash style, leading to comparisons with José Mourinho.
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Carlos Mozer
José Carlos Nepomuceno Mozer (born 19 September 1960) is a Brazilian retired footballer who played as a central defender, and a current coach.
In his career, he was mainly associated with Benfica in Portugal, which he represented in two separate spells. Mozer played for Brazil at the 1990 World Cup.
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Mozer starting playing for local giants Clube de Regatas do Flamengo, which he helped win the Libertadores Cup and the Intercontinental Cup, both in 1981.
After well more than 100 official appearances, he left for Portugal and S.L. Benfica, being an undisputed starter from the beginning, and helping the club to the league in 1988–89, while scoring more than 10 overall goals in his first stint; also that season, he partnered compatriot Ricardo Gomes in the heart of the Reds' defense.
In the summer, Mozer was sold to Olympique de Marseille of France, and faced his former side in the season's European Cup semifinals, a 2–2 controversial aggregate exit. Again, he rarely missed a game, and helped L'OM to three consecutive Ligue 1 conquests. Subsequently, the 32-year old returned to Benfica, where he still managed to amass more than 75 overall appearances until his departure in 1995, after which he saw out his career in Japan, at Kashima Antlers.
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Cosme Damião
Cosme Damião (Lisbon, 2 November 1885 - Sintra, 11 June 1947) was a Portuguese football player, as a midfielder, and a coach for SL Benfica. He will always be remembered as the main force behind the birth of Benfica and one of the first great Portuguese football players.
He was educated at the Casa Pia, in Lisbon. Starting at a young age, Damião developed an enthusiasm for football. In 1903 he had the idea to start a football team and in 1904, with some friends, he founded Sport Lisboa. Later the team merged with Sport Clube de Benfica and became Sport Lisboa e Benfica in 1908.
He played all his career in Benfica, as the captain of the team, and from 1909/10, as player-coach, from 1904/05 to 1915/16, when he retired from football, aged 30. He won the title of Regional Champion of Lisbon for the seasons of 1909/10, 1911/12, 1912/13, 1913/14 and 1915/16. He continued to coach Benfica until 1925/26.
Damião had the misfortune of ending his career before the first game of the Portugal National Team, but still played for the Lisbon Team and an unofficial National Team that played in Brazil, in 1913.
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Daniel Wass
Daniel Wass (born 31 May 1989) is a Danish football player who plays for French side Evian Thonon Gaillard F.C. on loan from Benfica. His natural role is as right defender, but Wass has also been used as right winger.
During the majority of his childhood, Daniel Wass played for Copenhagen-suburb-club BK Avarta, but was in 2006 scouted by Brøndby and promptly switched sides. After a year of playing for youth teams within the club, he joined the first team.
His debut for the Brøndby Danish Superliga team was given in the 2007/2008 season by then-manager Tom Køhlert, who wanted to give the young talent a chance; Wass played half of the games that season, but had to withdraw later on in the tournament, due to injury.
At the beginning of the 2008/2009 season, Wass secured his place as right defender, and played 28 games out of 33 possible, helping Brøndby to gain the 3. place in Danish Superliga, their best position since the 2004/2005 season, where they achieved gold.
Brøndby manager Kent Nielsen felt Wass should spend gain further developing at another club, so Brøndby chose to loan him out to Fredrikstad, a medal-competing side from Norway. The switch paved way for three unsatisfactory months for Wass, after the board of Fredrikstad FK fired manager Tom Freddy Aune who had signed Wass. Instead the club went forth to hire Tom Nordlie, who informed Wass, that he had no interest in an offensive right defender. As a result of that, Wass received no more than 3 games, and happily returned to Brøndby in December 2009. For the remainder of the 2009/2010 season, Wass got to play more games for Brøndby, ending up securing his place in the starting eleven.
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David Plaza
David Plaza Romero (born July 3, 1970 in Madrid) is a Spanish former professional road bicycle racer.
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David Simão
David Martins Simão (born 15 May 1990) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Académica de Coimbra on loan from S.L. Benfica, as a midfielder.
Born in Versailles, France, Simão played most of his youth career at S.L. Benfica, having arrived at the age of nine from Grupo Instrução Musical Desportiva Abóboda.
On 19 January 2008, he was called to the first team for a Portuguese Cup game against C.D. Feirense, courtesy of manager José Antonio Camacho, and was even picked to both UEFA Cup round-of-16 matches against Getafe CF, not being used however in any of the three contests.
Simão made his professional debuts with C.D. Fátima, on loan, his first match being against C.D. Santa Clara in the 2009–10 season opener in the second division, a 0–1 loss. On 26 September 2009, he scored his first goal for the club, in a 1–1 away draw against Gil Vicente FC.
On 17 June 2010, Simão moved to F.C. Paços de Ferreira, still on loan. He made his top level debut on 14 August in a 1–0 home win against Sporting Clube de Portugal, and only missed five league games (19 starts, 2,051 minutes of action) during the season as the team finished in seventh position.
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Domiciano Cavém
Domiciano Barrocal Gomes Cavém (Vila Real de Santo António, November 21, 1932 – Alcobaça, January 12, 2005) was a Portuguese footballer who played for SL Benfica. He played first as an extreme-forward, later as a midfielder and a right-defender. Not as skilled as teammates Mário Coluna, José Augusto and Eusébio, he was, nevertheless, one the great Portuguese players of his time, for his versatility on the field.
He spent almost his entire career in Benfica, from 1955/56 to 1969/70, were he won the titles of National Champion, in 1956/57, 1959/60, 1960/61, 1962/63, 1963/64, 1964/65, 1966/67, 1967/68 and 1968/69, and the Cup of Portugal, in 1957, 1959, 1962, 1964 and 1969. He also won the Champions Cup finals in 1961 and 1962, and played at the 1963 and 1965 finals. The day before the European Cup final of Amsterdam (1961/62), Cavém said to have been visited in his dreams by a friendly character, with little hair, and a moustache that told him not to shave his beard in order to be European champion, like exactly what happened.
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Ebbe Skovdahl
Ebbe Skovdahl Hansen (born 5 July 1945) is a retired Danish football (soccer) manager. He most prominently was a successful manager at Brøndby IF, for whom he had also played in his active years. He helped turn the side into the most dominant Danish team in the 1990s, and he also managed the club in several European campaigns with regular successful UEFA Cup runs, and a UEFA Champions League qualification. He has won numerous Danish Superliga and Danish Cup titles.
Skovdahl started playing as a child for Vanløse IF. He played 130 amateur games for the club before he moved to Brøndby IF in the Danish 3rd Division in 1971. Following 89 amateur matches, many of them as team captain, he went on to become Brøndby's third team coach in 1977. He coached a few minor Danish teams Hvalsø IF and Glostrup IC before he secured promotion for Brønshøj BK to the Danish 1st Division in 1982, the then best league of football in Denmark. In 1986 he moved back to coach Brøndby, who had just won the Danish football championship in 1985.
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Eduardo Carvalho
Eduardo dos Reis Carvalho (born 19 September 1982 in Mirandela), simply Eduardo, is a Portuguese footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica and the Portuguese national football team, as a goalkeeper.
Eduardo had to wait until his mid-twenties to make the breakthrough into top-flight football. A product of Sporting Clube de Braga's youth system, he first appeared in Portugal's first division during 2006–07, when he served a six-month loan at lowly S.C. Beira-Mar.
In the following season, Eduardo was also loaned, this time to Vitória de Setúbal, and was as a key player in a Carlos Carvalhal-led side that conquered the inaugural Portuguese League Cup, thus qualifying for the UEFA Cup, with a Man of the match display in the final against Sporting Clube de Portugal, saving three kicks in the penalty shootout.
Eduardo returned to Braga in 2008–09, playing in all the league matches, while doing the same in the Minho side's UEFA Cup round-of-16 run. The same happened in the following year, with the club finishing in its best-ever position, second, as he only conceded 20 goals (joint-best in the competition).
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Elek Schwartz
Alexandru "Elek" Schwartz (23 October 1908 – 2 October 2000) was a Jewish-Romanian footballer and coach of the Dutch national football team. With SL Benfica he won the national Championship and Cup trophies of 1965 and led the club into the final of the European Cup of Champions.
Elek Schwartz initially started playing in his hometown of Timişoara. Later he played professional football in the French Ligue 1 with FC Hyères (1932–1934), AS Cannes (1934–1936), Racing Strasbourg (1936–1938) and Red Star Olympique (1938/39).
He started his coaching career in France with AS Cannes (1948/49) and from there continued to AS Monaco (1950–1952) and Le Havre AC (1952/53).
1953 he was hired by SF Hamborn 07. In his second season with the club from the suburb of Duisburg he led the club to promotion to the western division of the five ways split first division of Germany, the 'Oberliga West.
1955 he was appointed as manager by the then German champions, Rot-Weiss Essen. In the next couple of years he led the team to ranks 4 and 8 in the Oberliga West.
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Emerson da Conceição
Emerson da Conceição (born 23 February 1986 in São Paulo), simply Emerson, is a Brazilian footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in Portugal, as a left defender.
In January 2007, aged only 20, Emerson left his country and signed for Lille OSC in France. He appeared in only two Ligue 1 games in his first season, his debut coming on 8 April in a 1–4 away loss against Olympique de Marseille.
Emerson became first-choice from his third season onwards, and contributed with 20 league matches in 2010–11, as Les Dogues won their first national championship in 57 years. He also helped the team win the domestic cup, but remained on the bench during the final against Paris Saint-Germain FC.
In late July 2011, Emerson signed for Portuguese club S.L. Benfica, for an undisclosed fee. In his first year, he beat competition from World and European champion Joan Capdevila.
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Enzo Pérez
Enzo Nicolás Pérez (born 22 February 1986) is an Argentine football midfielder who currently plays for Estudiantes (LP) on loan from Benfica.
Pérez began his professional playing career with Godoy Cruz, where he wrote his name into club history by scoring a fifth minute goal in the 1–1 draw with Belgrano on 9 September 2006. This was the first goal ever scored by Godoy Cruz in the Argentine first division. In total he has scores 9 goals in his career, most of them on penalty shots. In 2007, Pérez joined Estudiantes de La Plata, where he finished as runner-up with the team in the 2008 Copa Sudamericana. He was then a first team regular in the team that won the 2009 Copa Libertadores.
In June 8, 2011, he has agreed a five-year contract with Benfica for a fee rumored to be around 5.5 Million euros for 100% of his rights to Estudiantes de La Plata.
Enzo after an serious knee injury sustained in the Champions League qualifers, was loaned for 6 months to Estudiantes (LP) in 9 February 2012.
Enzo Pérez debuted on the Argentina squad on September 30, 2009 (coached then by Maradona) for a friendly match against Ghana, which ended in a victory (2-0) for the Albicelestes and he was elected as the best player of the match.[citation needed]
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Eusébio
Eusébio da Silva Ferreira, GCIH, GCM (Portuguese pronunciation: [ewˈzɛbiu dɐ ˈsiɫvɐ fɨˈʁɐjɾɐ]; born 25 January 1942), commonly known simply as Eusébio, is a retired Mozambican-born Portuguese football forward. He is considered one of the best footballers of all-time by the IFFHS, experts and fans. He helped the Portuguese national team reach third place at the 1966 World Cup, being the top goalscorer of the tournament with nine goals (six of which were scored at Goodison Park) and receiving the Bronze Ball award. He won the Ballon d'Or award in 1965 and was runner-up in 1962 and 1966. He played for Benfica for 15 years out of his 22 as a footballer, thus being mainly associated with the Portuguese club, and is the team's all-time top scorer with 638 goals scored in 614 official games. There, he won 11 Primeira Liga titles (1960–61, 1962–63, 1963–64, 1964–65, 1966–67, 1967–68, 1968–69, 1970–71, 1971–72, 1972–73 and 1974–75), 5 Portuguese Cup titles (1961–62, 1963–64, 1968–69, 1969–70 and 1971–72), 1 European Cup title (1961–62) and managed to help them reach three additional European Cup finals (1962–63, 1964–65 and 1967–68). He was the European Cup top scorer in 1965, 1966 and 1968. He also won the Bola de Prata (Primeira Liga top scorer award) seven times (a national record) in 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1970 and 1973. He was the first ever player to win the European Golden Boot award, in 1968, a feat he later replicated in 1973.
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Ezequiel Garay
Ezequiel Marcelo Garay González (born 10 October 1986 in Rosario, Santa Fe) is an Argentine footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in Portugal and for Argentina, as a central defender.
At the early age of 18, Garay made his professional debut for hometown club Newell's Old Boys, in the Argentine top division. His first match was against Club de Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, as the Rosario side eventually clinched the Apertura championship.
Garay made another 12 league appearances for Newell's, scoring his first and only goal for the club in the local derby against Rosario Central, a 2–1 win.
In December 2005, Garay joined La Liga side Racing de Santander, helping with seven complete matches as the Cantabria side barely avoided relegation (17th). His first full season was nothing short of spectacular, as he netted nine league goals in 31 matches, being the second top scorer in his position in Europe's major leagues, only behind F.C. Internazionale Milano's Marco Materazzi (ten); against Real Madrid only, he found the net three times - 2–1 home win (both through penalties, as well as five other goals) and 1–3 away loss, as Racing eventually finished 10th, the club's best since returning to the top flight in 2002.
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Fernando Cabrita
Fernando da Silva Cabrita (May 1, 1923 – August 12, 1992) was a Portuguese footballer and football manager.
He played as a forward for teams like Olhanense and Sporting da Covilhã, but he still had 7 caps for Portugal National Team, 4 for Olhanense and 3 for Sporting da Covilhã. His debut was at a 2–2 draw with Spain, in 11 March 1945, and his last game was a 0–3 lost to Brazil, in 16 June 1957, aged thirty-four.
He managed a number of Portuguese sides. He managed the National Team manager for nine games, in the season of 1983/84, after the resignation of Otto Glória. He led a technical commission with three other members: Toni, António Morais and José Augusto. He achieved the first ever qualification for Portugal for the Euro Cup finals, in 1984, where Portugal reached the semi-finals, losing 2–3 with France, in extra-time.
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Fernando Chalana
Fernando Albino de Sousa Chalana (Portuguese pronunciation: [fɨɾˈnɐ̃ðu ʃɐˈlɐnɐ]; born 10 February 1959) is a retired Portuguese professional footballer and manager.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest talents in national football and the world, among the likes of Eusébio, Cristiano Ronaldo, Luís Figo and Rui Costa, the diminutive winger's main asset was his above-average ball control and dribbling skills.
His career, highly troubled by injuries, was mainly spent at Sport Lisboa e Benfica, where he also later worked as a manager. Prior to his physical problems, he was one the leading figures at UEFA Euro 1984, helping Portugal to the semifinals.
Born in Barreiro, Setúbal District, Chalana began his football career at F.C. Barreirense, then moved to Lisbon neighbours and national powerhouse S.L. Benfica in 1974, where he established himself for the following eight years, scoring and assisting alike as he helped the Reds conquer, amongst other accolades, five leagues and three cups.
Aged only 17 (fourth youngest ever), on November 17, 1976, Chalana won his first cap for the national team, against Denmark, for the 1978 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
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Fernando Riera
Fernando Riera Bauzá (27 June 1920 – 23 September 2010 ) was a Chilean professional football player and manager, patriarch of Chilean football.
Riera was born in Santiago, Chile. He played for the Chile in the 1942,1947 and 1949 Copa Américas.
He played at the 1950 FIFA World Cup, and managed them on home soil when they finished third in the 1962 FIFA World Cup.
In 1962 Riera went to the Chile national football team in obtaining the third place in the 1962 FIFA World Cup.
In 1962–63 he led SL Benfica to the Portuguese championship. He returned to the club in 1966 and led them to the 1966–67 championship
In 1963 he coached a FIFA XI team. That was the first squad FIFA XI team in history.
In 70s and 80s Fernando Riera continued to lead large teams in the world.
In Chile left a great legacy, with the disciple coaches like Arturo Salah and Manuel Pellegrini, leaving a tradition and an identity for Chilean football.
Riera died in his home city of Santiago.
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Francisco Palmeiro
Francisco Luis Palmeiro Rodrigues (born 16 October 1932 in Arronches, Portalegre), known as Palmeiro, is a Portuguese retired footballer who played as a forward.
During eight years of his senior career, Palmeiro played with first division giants S.L. Benfica, leaving the club in 1961 after the emergence of future club and Portuguese national team legend Eusébio. Over the course of nine seasons, he amassed competition totals of 133 games and 44 goals – he also represented Atlético Clube de Portugal in the main category of Portuguese football – and won three national championships and as many Portuguese Cups with his main club.
On 3 June 1956, he gained the first of his three caps for Portugal, in a friendly with Spain in Lisbon, and scored all of the team's goals in a 3–1 win.
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Franco Jara
Franco Daniel Jara (born 15 July 1988 in Villa María, Córdoba) is an Argentine footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in Portugal, as a forward.
Jara made his professional debuts with Arsenal de Sarandí, first appearing in the top division in a 0–1 home defeat against Argentinos Juniors on 23 May 2008. He scored his first goal for the club on 10 April of the following year, in a 1–1 draw at Club Atlético Colón.
On 30 January 2010, Jara signed a five-year deal with Portuguese side Sport Lisboa e Benfica for a transfer fee of €5.5 million, effective for the beginning of the 2010–11 season. He scored in his second official game, a 1–2 home loss against Académica de Coimbra on 15 August, and finished his debut season with 43 overall appearances (11 goals).
In late August 2011, Jara was loaned to newly-promoted La Liga club Granada CF, moving to Andalusia alongside several other Benfica teammates.
On 19 January 2010, Jara was called-up to the Argentine national team for a friendly match with Costa Rica on the 27th. The game finished 3–2, and he scored the match-winning goal.
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Fábio Faria
Fábio do Passo Faria (born 24 April 1989 in Vila do Conde) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Rio Ave F.C. on loan from S.L. Benfica in the Portuguese first division, as a central defender.
Faria finished his football formation at hometown's Rio Ave FC, having arrived aged 15 from F.C. Porto. In 2007, with the Vila do Conde side in the second division, he was promoted to the first team, appearing two times as it returned to the top level.
After almost no official appearances in 2008–09, Faria became an undisputed starter in the following campaign - 27 games, one goal, partnering veteran Gaspar as the team maintained its division status - and was also first summoned to the Portuguese under-21s. In December 2009, his solid performances earned him a transfer to national powerhouse S.L. Benfica on a four-year contract, with a transfer fee of around €2 million, effective for the 2010–11 season.
In January 2011, after only having appeared once officially for Benfica (45 minutes in a 2–0 home win against C.S. Marítimo, for the season's League Cup, where he appeared as a left back), Faria was loaned to Real Valladolid in the Spanish second division, until June.
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Giovanni Trapattoni
Giovanni Trapattoni (Italian pronunciation: [dʒoˈvanni trapatˈtoni]; born 17 March 1939), sometimes known as "Trap" or "Il Trap", is an Italian football coach and former player, considered the most successful club coach in the history of Serie A. As a player he was part of Italy's squad at the 1962 FIFA World Cup.
Trapattoni is currently the manager of the Republic of Ireland national team. He has led them through a successful UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying campaign after narrowly missing out on the 2010 FIFA World Cup due to a controversial handball incident. Trapattoni coached his native Italian national team to the 2002 FIFA World Cup (where his team were controversially knocked out by South Korea) and UEFA Euro 2004. He has also coached in club football throughout Europe and is the only manager to have won all UEFA club competitions and the Intercontinental Cup. He achieved this with Juventus over his two spells with the club.
One of the most celebrated managers in football history, Trapattoni is one of only four coaches, alongside Ernst Happel, José Mourinho, and Tomislav Ivić to have won the league title (10) in four different countries. Alongside Udo Lattek, he is the only coach to have won all three major European club titles. Also, he is the only one to have won all UEFA club competitions and the World Club title, also having the record of UEFA Cup wins (three).
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Graeme Souness
Graeme James Souness ( /ˈsuːnɨs/; born 6 May 1953) is a Scottish former professional football player and manager.
Souness was the captain of the successful Liverpool team of the early 1980s and player-manager of Rangers in the late 1980s as well as captain of the Scottish national team. He also played for Tottenham Hotspur, Middlesbrough and Sampdoria in a long career. Following his retirement from playing he managed Rangers, Liverpool, Southampton, Benfica, Galatasaray, Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United.
Souness now does media work and divides his time working as a pundit for RTÉ, ESPN, Sky Sports and Al Jazeera Sports.
Souness was brought up in the Saughton Mains area of Edinburgh, and supported local side Hearts and Rangers. As a teenager Souness played for local boys' club North Merchiston.
Souness's career began as an apprentice at Tottenham Hotspur under Bill Nicholson. He signed professional forms as a 15 year-old in 1968. Frustrated at a lack of first team opportunities, the teenage Souness reputedly informed Nicholson that he was the best player at the club. Souness made one solitary appearance for Spurs in the UEFA cup as a substitute.
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Gustavo Teixeira
Gustavo Antunes Teixeira (born 26 December 1908 in Vila Real - deceased 1 January 1987), former Portuguese footballer who played as defender.
Teixeira gained 10 caps for Portugal and made his debut 8 June 1930 in Antwerp against Belgium, in a 1-2 defeat.
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Hugo Filipe Vieira
Hugo Filipe da Costa Vieira (born 25 July 1988 in Barcelos) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica as a forward.
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Humberto Coelho
Humberto Manuel de Jesus Coelho (born 20 April 1950) is a retired Portuguese professional footballer and manager.
In a career mainly associated with Benfica, the central defender held the record of appearances for the Portuguese national team for several years; in the following decades, he worked as a coach, mainly with national teams, including his own.
Coelho gained more than 60 caps for Portugal, but did not attend any major international tournament.
Born in Cedofeita, Porto, Coelho was regarded as one of the best stoppers in Portuguese football, imposing himself in Lisbon-based Sport Lisboa e Benfica's first team at the age of 18 - not yet 22, he had already played in more than 100 first division matches for the Reds.
On 27 October 1968, aged 18, Coelho made his debut for Portugal, in a 3–0 win over Romania for the 1970 FIFA World Cup qualifying stages; during the next 15 years, he would gain a further 63 international caps, scoring six times.
From 1975 and during two seasons, Coelho played abroad with Paris Saint-Germain FC, continuing to display the traditional offensive penchant in spite of his position, as he netted six goals, although the club could only finish in 14th position in Ligue 1.
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Hélio Vaz
Hélio José Vaz (born 19 December 1990 in Montijo) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Atlético Clube de Portugal on loan from S.L. Benfica, as forward.
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Ishmael Yartey
Ishmael Yartey (born January 11, 1990 in Swedru) is a Ghanaian footballer. He currently plays for Servette F.C. of the Swiss Super League on loan from Benfica.
He played in All Blacks F.C., a local club, before joining his current club, SL Benfica on a 1 year loan deal with a buy option at the end of the contract. Former Benfica's manager Quique Flores has already called him to train with the senior squad, but his debut with Benfica's shirt is yet to be made.
On 15 July 2009 left S.L. Benfica and signed a one year loan deal with S.C. Beira Mar then at the end of the season he sign for CD Fatima another one year loan. In January 2011 he was loaned to S.C. Beira-Mar for the remainder of the season.
In June 21, 2011 he was again loaned, this time to Servette F.C. of the Swiss Super League.
Yartey represented Ghana U-17 (Black Starlets) by the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Korea Republic.
On 16 May 2012, Yartey was called for the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifications against Lesotho in Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana, on 1 June 2012 and against Zambia in Ndola, Copperbelt Province, Zambia, on 9 June 2012.
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Jan Oblak
Jan Oblak (born 7 January 1993) is a Slovenian footballer who plays for União de Leiria on loan from S.L. Benfica in Portugal, as a goalkeeper.
Born in the Upper Carniolan town of Škofja Loka, Oblak started his career in his hometown playing for NK Ločan. At the age of 10, he moved to NK Olimpija Ljubljana, rejecting a contract from Empoli F.C. in favour of a trial at Fulham in 2009, but eventually did not leave, committing his future with a contract extension until 2011.
Oblak made his professional debuts in the 2009–10 season aged only 16, only missing three league games for Olimpija as it ranked in fourth position. On 14 June 2010, he signed a contract with S.L. Benfica, being immediately loaned to fellow top level outfit S.C. Beira-Mar; he finished 2010–11 with S.C. Olhanense, totalling ten bench appearances combined.
Still owned by Benfica, Oblak moved to another Portuguese team, U.D. Leiria, for the 2011–12 season. He made his league debut on 15 January 2012, in a 2–2 away draw against C.D. Nacional.
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Javier Saviola
Javier Pedro Saviola Fernández (born 11 December 1981) is an Argentine professional footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in Portugal, as a striker.
Known for his speed, he represented both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid during his career (amongst others), and was named, as the youngest player, to Pelé's FIFA 100 list of the 125 greatest living footballers. Due to his Spanish ancestors, he also holds Spanish nationality since 2004.
An Argentine international in the 2000s, Saviola represented the country at the 2006 World Cup and the 2004 Copa América.
Nicknamed El Conejo (The Rabbit), Buenos Aires-born Saviola made his debut for Club Atlético River Plate at the age of 16, and went on to be a prolific goalscorer for the club.
He helped River to the 1999 Apertura and 2000 Clausura championships, and earned the 1999 South American Footballer of the Year award. Still only 18, he gained a reputation as a phenomenal prospect.
In 2001, aged 19, Saviola moved abroad to play for FC Barcelona in a £15 million transfer. He obtained Spanish citizenship shortly after, thereby not being restricted by the Spanish league maximum on the number of non-European Union citizens allowed in each club. Under coach Louis van Gaal, he scored 17 goals in his first season, finishing third best scorer in La Liga.
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Jesualdo Ferreira
Manuel Jesualdo Ferreira (born 24 May 1946) is a Portuguese football manager who currently manages Greek club Panathinaikos.
In Ferreira's early career, he managed Rio Maior and Torreense. Ferreira was the assistant manager for the Portuguese national team in the 1990s, and manager for the under-21 national team, until the 1999–00 season.
In 1984–85, Ferreira took over at Académica de Coimbra and was dismissed after matchday seven with the balance of one victory and six defeats, being replaced by Vítor Manuel who led the team to a final seventh place. He also coached Estrela da Amadora, but the club was relegated to Liga de Honra in the 1990–91 season. Ferreira became famous when he took over at the Portuguese under-21 national team, coaching skilled players, such as future senior squad star Maniche.
Ferreira arrived at Alverca in 2000–01, where he took the team to 12th place in the Liga. With good results, Ferreira then left for Benfica for the 2001–02 season. After a poor string of results, he was fired by Benfica president Luís Filipe Vieira after a losing a cup match at home to third division side Gondomar. He was replaced by the Spanish José Antonio Camacho as manager of as Águias.
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Jimmy Hagan
James (Jimmy) Hagan (21 January 1918 – 26 February 1998) was an English football player and manager born in Washington, County Durham, England. He played between 1938 and 1958 for Sheffield United and once for England. As manager he had his greatest successes with S.L. Benfica in the early 1970s.
Just one full England cap, 1948 versus Denmark in Copenhagen (0-0), does not do justice to one of the finest British footballers of his era. A two-footed inside forward with an astonishing repertoire of tricks, Jimmy was also a regular goalscorer. His career was interrupted by World War II, but he remains a legend amongst Sheffield United fans for his performances during nearly 20 years service at "the Lane".
Following in the footsteps of his father, Alf, a former Newcastle United, Cardiff City and Tranmere player, Hagan represented England at schoolboy level and after spells with Washington Colliery and Usworth Colliery; he joined the groundstaff of Liverpool before leaving for Derby County at fifteen years of age. He stayed at the Baseball Ground until the age of twenty when United's manager Teddy Davison met his Derby counterpart George Jobey and haggled over the £3,000 asking price, eventually agreeing to pay £2,925.
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Joan Capdevila
Joan Capdevila i Méndez (Catalan pronunciation: [ʒuˈaŋ kədːəˈβiɫə]; born 3 February 1978) is a Spanish footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in Portugal. His usual position is left defender, but he is also capable of operating as a winger and, from a defensive position, often contributes with goals.
Over the course of 13 La Liga seasons, he amassed totals of 379 appearances and 36 goals, namely for Deportivo de La Coruña and Villarreal CF.
A Spanish international on more than 60 occasions, Capdevila represented the nation in one World Cup and two European Championships, winning one tournament in each competition.
Born in Tàrrega, Province of Lleida, Catalonia, and a product of RCD Espanyol's youth system, Capdevila made his debut for its first team during 1998–99, in a 2–2 La Liga draw at Athletic Bilbao, and joined Atlético Madrid the following season.
After the Colchoneros relegation, however, he signed with Galician side Deportivo de La Coruña in the summer of 2000, and would be a regular fixture in the team as left-back, first competing with Enrique Romero, then as the undisputed first-choice. On 16 September 2006, he netted twice as Depor overcame Villarreal CF 2–0 at Riazor Stadium.
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Jorge Jesus
Jorge Fernando Pinheiro de Jesus (born 24 July 1954 in Amadora, Lisbon) is a retired Portuguese footballer who played as a right midfielder, and the current manager of Sport Lisboa e Benfica.
Jesus, son of Jesus Virgolino who played for Sporting Clube de Portugal in the 1940s, finished his football formation precisely with the top division giants, and made his top flight debuts with S.C. Olhanense, on loan from the Lions.
He played with Sporting's first team in the 1975–76 season, appearing in 12 matches (one start) as the capital club finished in fifth position. Subsequently released, he played in the country's top flight in seven of the following eight years, representing C.F. Os Belenenses, Grupo Desportivo Riopele, Juventude de Évora, União de Leiria, Vitória de Setúbal and S.C. Farense, amassing totals in the category of 166 games and 13 goals.
Jesus retired in 1989 at the age of 35, after spells in the second (mainly with hometown's C.F. Estrela da Amadora) and third levels.
After starting as a manager with lowly Amora FC, Jesus moved in 1993 to F.C. Felgueiras, helping the club promote to the top flight in his second season, and remaining in the team until June 1998, with Felgueiras back in division two.
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José Antonio Camacho
José Antonio Camacho Alfaro (born 8 June 1955) is a retired Spanish footballer who played as a left defender, and the current coach of the China PR national football team.
He played for 15 professional years with Real Madrid, appearing in more than 500 official matches with the team and helping it to 19 major titles, including nine La Liga championships. Subsequently, he embarked in a lengthy manager career, which included two very brief spells with his main club.
Camacho gained more than 80 caps with Spain, representing it in two World Cups and as many European Championships. He also managed the national team during four years, taking it to the quarterfinals in the 2002 World Cup.
Camacho was born in Cieza, Murcia. After playing youth football at Albacete Balompié, he moved to La Liga giants Real Madrid at age 18, being almost immediately cast into the first team and its starting XI, his debut being handed by manager Luis Molowny.
During his spell with Real Madrid, Camacho played in nearly 600 official matches (414 in the league alone), forming a proficient left-wing partnership with Rafael Gordillo, who played mainly as a midfielder then. In January 1978, he suffered a serious injury in training, which put his career on hold for nearly two years, but returned strong, being instrumental as the capital side won consecutive UEFA Cups.
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José Augusto Torres
José Augusto da Costa Séneca Torres (Portuguese pronunciation: [ʒuˈzɛ ˈtoʁɨʃ]; 8 September 1938 – 3 September 2010) was a Portuguese football centre forward and coach.
Nicknamed O Bom Gigante (The Kind Giant), most of his 21-year senior career was spent at Benfica, with great individual and team success (13 major titles). With the Portuguese national team, he participated in two World Cups separated by 20 years, one as player and the other as manager.
Born in Torres Novas, Santarém District, Torres signed with national powerhouse S.L. Benfica in 1959, from local side Clube Desportivo de Torres Novas. Even though he appeared rarely in his first three seasons combined, he managed to score six league goals in as many matches, paving the way for a bright future at the Reds.
In the 1962–63 season, in only 21 games, Torres was crowned the competition's top scorer, netting 26 goals, whilst also helping champions Benfica to the domestic cup final. It was also during this decade that he would be an instrumental figure as the club reached three European Cup finals - losing all - alongside offensive partners José Augusto, Mário Coluna, Eusébio and António Simões.
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José Mourinho
José Mário dos Santos Mourinho Félix, OIH, or simply José Mourinho (Portuguese pronunciation: [ʒuˈzɛ moˈɾiɲu]; born 26 January 1963) is a Portuguese football manager, currently the head coach of Real Madrid. He is commonly known as "The Special One". Mourinho is regarded by some players, coaches, and critics as one of the best football coaches of all time. Mourinho started out as a player and eventually switched to management. After working as a physical education teacher and spells working as a youth team coach, a scout, and an assistant manager in the early 1990s, he became an interpreter for Sir Bobby Robson. He worked with Robson at Sporting Lisbon and Porto in Portugal, and Barcelona in Spain. He remained at the Catalonian club after Robson's departure and worked with his successor Louis van Gaal.
He began focusing on coaching and impressed with brief but successful managerial periods at Benfica and União de Leiria, taking the latter to their highest ever league finish. He returned to Porto in early 2002 as head coach, winning the Primeira Liga, Taça de Portugal, and UEFA Cup in 2003. In the next season Mourinho guided the team to victory in the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira, to the top of the league for a second time, and won the highest honour in European club football, the UEFA Champions League. Mourinho moved to Chelsea the following year and won the Premier League title, the club's first league title in 50 years, and the League Cup in his first season season. In his second year Chelsea retained the Premier League and in 2006-07 he took the club to an FA Cup and League Cup double, though they were league runners-up. He often courted controversy for his outspokenness, but his victories at Chelsea and Porto established him as one of the world's top football managers. Mourinho left Chelsea in September 2007, amidst reports of a rift with club owner Roman Abramovich.
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José Shaffer
José Alberto Shaffer (born 16 December 1985 Córdoba, Argentina) is an Argentinian footballer who currently plays as a left wingback for União de Leiria on a loan from Portuguese side Benfica.
In 2006, Shaffer was loaned on a one-year deal from Racing Club de Avellaneda to IFK Göteborg to replace the departing Oscar Wendt, who moved to FC Copenhagen. However, he did not manage to make a first team impact, and he subsequently moved back to Argentina after his short loan spell in Europe.
On 27 June 2009, it was announced that Shaffer had signed a deal with Portuguese club Benfica and on 29 June, he was officially presented at Benfica's Estádio da Luz. However, after failing to hold on to a position in the first team, Shaffer moved once again back to Argentina on a 6-month loan to Banfield. In 2010-2011 he was loaned to Rosario Central, returning in the end of the season. He was loaned to União de Leiria for the 2011-2012 season.
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José Águas
José Pinto de Carvalho Santos Águas (Portuguese pronunciation: [ʒuˈzɛ ˈaɡwɐʃ]; 9 November 1930 – 10 December 2000) was a Portuguese footballer who played as a striker.
He endured a lengthy professional spell with Benfica, never scoring less than 18 goals in his first division seasons.
Born in Luanda, Portuguese Angola, Portuguese Empire, from a white colonial family, Águas started his footballing career with local team Lusitano do Lobito, before moving to S.L. Benfica in 1950, where he played until 1963, where he gained legendary status.
With Benfica, he won the league five times (1955, 1957, 1960, 1961 and 1963), the domestic cup seven times, also being crowned national league's top scorer on five occasions. In the years previous to Eusébio's explosion at the Lisbon side, he was also instrumental in Benfica's back-to-back European Cup conquests, in 1961 against FC Barcelona (3–2), and the next season against Real Madrid (5–3), scoring his team's first goal on both occasions, and being club captain; he failed to complete a hat-trick of wins in the competition, after the 1–2 defeat to A.C. Milan in the 1963 final (he did not play).
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João Vieira Pinto
João Manuel Vieira Pinto (born 19 August 1971) is a Portuguese retired footballer who played mostly as a forward.
Blessed with formidable skills and scoring ability, he made his name mostly at a domestic level and as a key figure in the Portuguese national team's "Golden Generation", collecting 138 caps and scoring 35 goals all categories comprised (81/23 for the senior team alone), and representing the country in one World Cup and two European Championships.
In the club level, Pinto started his career with Boavista, but it was mainly associated with two of the biggest clubs in the country, Benfica and Sporting, with which he won one national championship each, for a total of six major titles combined. Over the course of 19 first division seasons, he played in 475 games and netted 116 goals.
As a youth, Pinto played for the Bairro do Falcão (where he was born, in Campanhã, Porto's east side) and the Águias da Areosa, and once tried to join F.C. Porto's youth system; refused, he moved to Boavista FC instead. As a child, he impressed with his speed and ball control, and was subsequently one of the brightest stars in Portugal's wins in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Riyadh and Lisbon, being the only player ever to have been on the winning side in this competition twice (along with goalkeeper Fernando Brassard, whom however did not play in the first tournament). Additionally, he made his first division debuts at only 17.
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Jupp Heynckes
Josef "Jupp" Heynckes (born 9 May 1945 in Mönchengladbach) is a former football player and manager currently the manager of Bayern Munich of the Fußball-Bundesliga. As player he belonged to the core of the team of Borussia Mönchengladbach in its golden era of the 1960s and 1970s where he won many national championships and the Cup as well as the UEFA Cup. He was a member of the West German national squad that won the European Championship and the World Cup in the first half of the 1970s. As manager he won two German championships with Bayern Munich and the 1997–98 UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid, their first title in the competition in more than thirty years.
Heynckes played 369 matches in the German Bundesliga, scoring 220 goals. His tally is the third highest in this league, after Gerd Müller's 365 goals and Klaus Fischer's 268 goals.
He started his playing career in 1964 with Borussia Mönchengladbach who were in the second division. In 1965 the club, managed by the legendary Hennes Weisweiler, achieved promotion to the Bundesliga. Heynckes stayed on for two more years and then left for Hannover 96, where he spent three years.
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Júlio César Jacobi
Júlio César Jacobi (born 2 September 1986), known as Júlio César, is a Brazilian footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in the Portuguese first division, as a goalkeeper.
Born in Guaramirim, Santa Catarina, Júlio César started his professional career at Botafogo de Futebol e Regatas, signing a 5-year contract in August 2005. He made his first division debut in a 0–0 home draw against Sport Club Corinthians Paulista, on 26 November 2006.
In January 2008, Júlio César moved to Portugal, signing with C.F. Os Belenenses. He first played in the league on 23 February, against C.S. Marítimo, replacing striker Weldon in the 29th minute after veteran goalkeeper Paulo Costinha had been sent off, in an eventual 1–3 home loss.
After having played all the matches and minutes in his first full season – Belenenses was relegated, but later reinstated – he signed with Lisbon neighbours Sport Lisboa e Benfica, thus reuniting with former manager Jorge Jesus. In his debut season, he backed up Quim, demoting José Moreira to third-choice, and starting in the club's UEFA Europa League campaign.
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Lajos Baróti
Lajos Baróti (ˈlɒjoʃ ˈbɒroːti / * 19 August 1914 – 23 December 2005) was a Hungarian association football player and manager. With eleven major titles he is one of the outstanding coaches of his era.
Lajos Baróti played from 1928 until 1946 for Szeged AK and from 1946 to 1948 Győri ETO. Between 1939 and 1941 he also played twice for the national team
1957 he was appointed head coach of the national team. Until 1966 and between 1975 and 1978 he led the side through 117 matches. He led Hungary to the World Cups of 1958, 1962, 1966 and 1978. At the Olympics of 1960 in Rome and the 1964 European Nations' Cup the team finished third. The greatest success was the winning of the gold medal at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo.
Between 1971 and 1972 he had a stint as coach of the Peruvian national team.
His most successful time as club coach was from 1967 and 1971 with Újpesti Dózsa in Budapest, where he laid the beginnings of the club's golden era. The front row consisting of Fazekas - Göröcs - Bene - Dunai II - Zámbó was one of the finest of the 1970s. He took the club to doubles of cup and championship in 1969 and 1970 as well as to a third consecutive championship in 1971, the first titles for the club in a decade. He also took the club to the finals of the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup of 1968/69 against Newcastle United, however losing there 0-3 and 2-3.
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Lajos Czeizler
Lajos Czeizler (5 October 1893 – 6 May 1969) was a Hungarian football coach born in Heves.
With altogether 11 major titles he remains one of the most successful football coaches of all time.
He began his coaching career in 1920s in Poland, in ŁKS Łódź, where he had his first coaching experience. In the 1940s he went to Sweden, where he had his greatest successes with IFK Norrköping. There he achieved a record five championships (1943, 45, 46, 47, 48) and two national cups (1943, 45). When he led Norrköping to the 1948 championship he became the oldest coach in Sweden to achieve this title, a special honour he retains to date. He was then aged 54 years, 8 months and 1 day.
After his time in Sweden he returned to Italy where he led A.C. Milan in 1951 to championship honours. He coached the Italian national team in the 1954 FIFA World Cup. In 1961 he won another title in Italy when his side Fiorentina defeated Lazio 2–0 in the cup final.
In the 1963–64 season he took SL Benfica to the double of championship and cup of Portugal.
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Leandro Pimenta
Leandro António Coelho Pimenta (born 9 July 1990 in Albufeira) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Atlético Clube de Portugal on loan from Benfica, as a midfielder.
Leando Pimenta started his professional career in a loan to S.C. Beira-Mar in 2009-2010 season, having played just 431min there.
In 2010-2011 he was loaned to C.D. Fátima, but again didn't played more than 477min. In 2011-2012 he will play at Atlético Clube de Portugal.
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Lippo Hertzka
Lippo Hertzka (died 14 March 1951) was a Hungarian footballer and football manager. He played for Essener Turnerbund (current Schwarz-Weiss Essen) and Real Sociedad. After retiring, he coached seven teams, including Real Sociedad and Real Madrid, a team which he coached for 2 years (1930–1932) and won La Liga in 1931-32 season, which meant the first La Liga title for the white squad. He also won three League titles in Portugal for Benfica.
He coached Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao, Sevilla FC, Real Madrid C.F., Hércules CF, Recreativo Granada, S.L. Benfica, Belenenses and FC Porto.
He was the husband of Tivadar Farkasházy's godmother.
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Lipót Hertzka
Lippo Hertzka (died 14 March 1951) was a Hungarian footballer and football manager. He played for Essener Turnerbund (current Schwarz-Weiss Essen) and Real Sociedad. After retiring, he coached seven teams, including Real Sociedad and Real Madrid, a team which he coached for 2 years (1930–1932) and won La Liga in 1931-32 season, which meant the first La Liga title for the white squad. He also won three League titles in Portugal for Benfica.
He coached Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao, Sevilla FC, Real Madrid C.F., Hércules CF, Recreativo Granada, S.L. Benfica, Belenenses and FC Porto.
He was the husband of Tivadar Farkasházy's godmother.
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Luisão
Ânderson Luís da Silva (born 13 February 1981), aka Luisão (literally "Big Luís"), is a Brazilian footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in Portugal, as a central defender and he is also club Captain.
Most of his professional career was spent with Benfica, for which he appeared in more than 300 official games, winning seven major titles.
A Brazilian international on more than 40 occasions, Luisão appeared for the country in two World Cups and three Copa América tournaments.
Born in Amparo, São Paulo, Luisão represented Clube Atlético Juventus and Cruzeiro Esporte Clube in his country, scoring a career-best six goals in 24 matches in his third season with the latter.
In the 2003 summer, Luisão's moved to Europe, signing with S.L. Benfica of Portugal for £890,000. He faced a tough period of adaptation, during which he performed somewhat below his capabilities and even considered traveling back to his home country. He did manage, however, to score in his league debut, a thrilling 3–3 home draw against C.F. Os Belenenses on 14 September. He ended his first season with the Portuguese Cup conquest, helping defeat F.C. Porto 2–1.
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Luís Filipe Vieira
Luís Filipe Vieira Ferreira (born 22 June 1949 in Lisbon), also known as "LFV" in Portugal, is a Portuguese businessman who is currently the chairman of Portuguese sports club Benfica. He was previously chairman of the sports club Alverca Futebol Clube.
Despite only having educated up until the age of ten, Ferreira went on to found a tyre wholesaling and a real estate business.
Luís Filipe Vieira was the President of Alverca Futebol Clube for a couple of years, at a time when the Angolan player Pedro Mantorras was a rising young star at the Alverca side, and Alverca an affiliated satellite football club for parent club Sport Lisboa e Benfica.
On 3 November 2003, Vieira was elected by Benfica's associate members the 33rd President of the club, succeeding Manuel Vilarinho. He was committed to bring Benfica back to its European glory.
In the 2004–05 football season, the club won the SuperLiga, with the Italian Giovanni Trapattoni as manager. In the 2005–06 season, he hired Ronald Koeman, a Dutch international and former AFC Ajax coach, as manager. He guided Benfica to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, knocking out the defending champions Liverpool. Under his management, Benfica reached over 160,000 associate members in 2006, and was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest sports club in the world by number of registered paying associates.
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Macau
Coordinates: 22°10′N 113°33′E / 22.167°N 113.55°E / 22.167; 113.55
Macau (Chinese: 澳門), also spelled Macao ( /məˈkaʊ/), is one of the two special administrative regions of the People's Republic of China, the other being Hong Kong. Macau lies on the western side of the Pearl River Delta across from Hong-Kong which is to the east, bordering Guangdong province to the north and facing the South China Sea to the east and south.
The territory's economy is heavily dependent on gambling and tourism, but also includes manufacturing.
Macau is a former Portuguese colony, and is both the first and last European colony in China. Portuguese traders first settled in Macau in the 16th century and subsequently administered the region until the handover on 20 December 1999. The Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration and the Basic Law of Macau stipulate that Macau operates with a high degree of autonomy until at least 2049, fifty years after the transfer. Macau was first lent by the Chinese empire as a trading port in the 16th century, and had to administer the city under Chinese authority and sovereignty. In 1887, Macau became a colony of the Portuguese empire and its sovereignty transferred to the Portuguese.
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Manuel Bento
Manuel Galrinho Bento (born 25 June 1948 in Golegã - died 1 March 2007 in Barreiro) was a Portuguese footballer who played as a goalkeeper.
He is best known for his 20-year spell at S.L. Benfica, having retired well into his 40's. Chosen by Portuguese sports newspaper 'Record' as one of the best 100 Portuguese footballers.
Bento represented Portugal at Euro 1984 and the 1986 World Cup, helping the national team reach the semifinals in the former tournament.
After various youth spells, including one year at Sporting Clube de Portugal, Bento started professionally at F.C. Barreirense, being transferred to S.L. Benfica for 1972–73. He started there as a backup to another legendary Portuguese keeper, José Henrique.
After three years in an interesting battle with Henrique, Bento gained starting status in 1976, at 28, and proceeded to amass more than 700 overall appearances for the Lisbon side.
Bento suffered a severe injury in the 1986 summer on international duty, from which he never recovered fully. He spent the next six years mainly as third-string, behind Silvino and Neno; he was on the bench at both the 1988 and 1990 European Champions Cup finals, lost to PSV Eindhoven and A.C. Milan. The last game of his career came at the end of 1989–90, against C.F. Os Belenenses, in which he was chosen Man of the Match.
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Manuel José
Manuel José de Jesus Silva, ComM, known simply as Manuel José (Portuguese pronunciation: [mɐnuˈɛɫ ʒuˈzɛ]; born 9 April 1946 in Vila Real de Santo António), is a Portuguese football manager, who has recently managed Al-Ahly. Some of the teams he has coached include Vitória de Guimarães, Sporting CP, Sporting de Braga, Boavista, Benfica, Al-Ahly, Belenenses, Angola, amongst others, being the coach with most games in the Primeira Liga.
He is regarded as one of the most successful club coaches in CAF competitions, having won the main African club tournament, the CAF Champions League, a record of four times and guiding his team to four consecutive CAF Champions League finals between 2005 and 2008, winning three of those finals. He has also won the CAF Super Cup in 2002, 2006, 2007 and 2009 and was the first manager to take an African team to the medal positions in the FIFA Club World Cup in 2006.
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Manuel José de Jesus
Manuel José de Jesus Silva, ComM, known simply as Manuel José (Portuguese pronunciation: [mɐnuˈɛɫ ʒuˈzɛ]; born 9 April 1946 in Vila Real de Santo António), is a Portuguese football manager, who has recently managed Al-Ahly. Some of the teams he has coached include Vitória de Guimarães, Sporting CP, Sporting de Braga, Boavista, Benfica, Al-Ahly, Belenenses, Angola, amongst others, being the coach with most games in the Primeira Liga.
He is regarded as one of the most successful club coaches in CAF competitions, having won the main African club tournament, the CAF Champions League, a record of four times and guiding his team to four consecutive CAF Champions League finals between 2005 and 2008, winning three of those finals. He has also won the CAF Super Cup in 2002, 2006, 2007 and 2009 and was the first manager to take an African team to the medal positions in the FIFA Club World Cup in 2006.
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Maxi Pereira
Victorio Maximiliano "Maxi" Pereira Páez (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈmaksi peˈrejra]; born 8 June 1984 in Montevideo) is an Uruguayan footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in the Portuguese first division. Mainly a right defender, he can occasionally appear as a midfielder.
An Uruguayan international on more than 60 occasions, Pereira represented the nation at the 2010 World Cup and two Copa América tournaments.
Pereira started playing professional football for Defensor Sporting, as a 18-year-old, early in the 2002–03 season. He took no time to adjust to the first team, being a crucial part alongside Álvaro González, and netting a career-best 16 goals in the first division in the 2005 season. After 2006–07, Defensor lost both gems, as González was transferred to Boca Juniors and Pereira went to Sport Lisboa e Benfica, accompanied by countryman Cristian Rodríguez. The Lisbon side signed the player for €3 million and 70% of his rights.
In his first season, Pereira was initially played as a right midfielder, failing to adjust to that position. He did score in two consecutive home games in November 2007, in a 6–1 league thrashing of Boavista F.C. and in the campaign's UEFA Champions League 1–1 draw against A.C. Milan, where he scored with his left foot from outside the box.
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Maximiliano Pereira
Victorio Maximiliano "Maxi" Pereira Páez (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈmaksi peˈrejra]; born 8 June 1984 in Montevideo) is an Uruguayan footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in the Portuguese first division. Mainly a right defender, he can occasionally appear as a midfielder.
An Uruguayan international on more than 60 occasions, Pereira represented the nation at the 2010 World Cup and two Copa América tournaments.
Pereira started playing professional football for Defensor Sporting, as a 18-year-old, early in the 2002–03 season. He took no time to adjust to the first team, being a crucial part alongside Álvaro González, and netting a career-best 16 goals in the first division in the 2005 season. After 2006–07, Defensor lost both gems, as González was transferred to Boca Juniors and Pereira went to Sport Lisboa e Benfica, accompanied by countryman Cristian Rodríguez. The Lisbon side signed the player for €3 million and 70% of his rights.
In his first season, Pereira was initially played as a right midfielder, failing to adjust to that position. He did score in two consecutive home games in November 2007, in a 6–1 league thrashing of Boavista F.C. and in the campaign's UEFA Champions League 1–1 draw against A.C. Milan, where he scored with his left foot from outside the box.
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Michel Preud'homme
Michel Georges Jean Ghislain Preud’Homme[citation needed], (born 24 January 1959 in Ougree), commonly known as Michel Preud'homme, is a Belgian football coach and retired goalkeeper. He is currently head coach of Al-Shabab Riyadh, a role he took after guiding outgoing Dutch Eredivisie champions FC Twente in the 2010–11 season. He was considered one of the world's best goalkeepers during his career, and the first winner of the Yashin Award as the best goalkeeper at the 1994 World Cup.
On club level, Preud'homme played for Standard Liège, Mechelen, and Benfica. With Mechelen, he won the Belgian Cup in 1987, the Cup Winner's Cup and the European Super Cup in 1988 and the Belgian league title in 1989. He retired as a player in 1999, aged 40. For Belgium, Preud'homme was capped 58 times, from 1979 to 1995. Other than the 1994 World Cup, he also played in the 1990 edition.
Preud'homme is a product of Standard Liège's youth system which he joined 10 years old in 1969. He was first called up to the first team in 1977.
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Miguel Rosa
Miguel Alexandre Jesus Rosa (born 13 January 1989) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for C.F. Os Belenenses on loan from S.L. Benfica, as a midfielder.
A product of hometown's S.L. Benfica's youth system, Lisbon-born Rosa joined the club at the age of ten. In a 2006–07 end-of-season friendly with AEK Athens, courtesy of manager Fernando Santos, he made his debut with the first team, replacing legendary Rui Costa; he eventually returned to the juniors, scoring 18 goals in his last year in the category.
In the following three seasons, Rosa would be loaned by Benfica, always to clubs in the second division. On 31 August 2008, he made his professional debut, playing 17 minutes for G.D. Estoril Praia in a 0–0 home draw against U.D. Oliveirense, and was voted the league's Young Player of the Month in December 2008.
Rosa netted 10 times in the 2009–10 season for A.D. Carregado (13 overall), who were competing in the category for the first time ever, eventually being relegated back. In the following summer, Benfica loaned him to C.F. Os Belenenses, with the move being extended for 2011–12.. After another sucesseful season in the second tier with C.F. Os Belenenses he is expected to be in S.L. Benfica 2012-2013 pre season.
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Miguel Vítor
Miguel Ângelo Leonardo Vítor (born 30 June 1989 in Torres Vedras) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica as a central defender.
Having been promoted from Sport Lisboa e Benfica's junior squad for 2007–08, Vítor made his debut for the first team in August 2007, appearing in both the league, against Vitória de Guimarães, and the UEFA Champions League, facing F.C. Copenhagen in the third qualifying round; this was because habitual starters Luisão and David Luiz were sidelined with nagging injuries.
Like midfielder Romeu Ribeiro, Vítor was loaned to second division side Desportivo das Aves in January 2008 until the end of the season. After the season's end, he returned to Benfica, being relatively used in his first full season.
In early July 2010, Vítor joined English Championship club Leicester City in a season-long loan, teaming up with compatriots Moreno and manager Paulo Sousa. He made his debut in a 2–1 League Cup win over Portsmouth at Fratton Park on 21 September; on 6 November, he scored his first professional goal, heading from a Martyn Waghorn free kick after 18 minutes, in a 2–0 win against Barnsley at Oakwell.
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Miklos Feher
Miklós "Miki" Fehér (20 July 1979 — 25 January 2004) was a Hungarian footballer who played as a striker.
On 25 January 2004, he died of a cardiac arrest during a match between Vitória de Guimarães and his team Benfica in Guimarães.
Fehér spent most of his nine-year career in Portugal, representing three teams as a professional and amassing top division totals of 80 games and 27 goals. He gained 25 caps for Hungary.
Born in Tatabánya, Fehér started his playing career at Győri ETO FC, where he was spotted by F.C. Porto scouts. He was signed in 1998 but never really made a breakthrough onto the first team. Relatively young, he was loaned to gain experience, to another two northern sides, S.C. Salgueiros and Sporting de Braga.
At Braga, Fehér had his best professional season, scoring 14 goals in 26 matches in 2000–01. After Porto chairman Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa quarrelled with his agent José Veiga, the player refused to part with his agent and left, joining Lisbon side S.L. Benfica, going on to score seven goals in 29 matches during two seasons.
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Miklós Fehér
Miklós "Miki" Fehér (20 July 1979 — 25 January 2004) was a Hungarian footballer who played as a striker.
On 25 January 2004, he died of a cardiac arrest during a match between Vitória de Guimarães and his team Benfica in Guimarães.
Fehér spent most of his nine-year career in Portugal, representing three teams as a professional and amassing top division totals of 80 games and 27 goals. He gained 25 caps for Hungary.
Born in Tatabánya, Fehér started his playing career at Győri ETO FC, where he was spotted by F.C. Porto scouts. He was signed in 1998 but never really made a breakthrough onto the first team. Relatively young, he was loaned to gain experience, to another two northern sides, S.C. Salgueiros and Sporting de Braga.
At Braga, Fehér had his best professional season, scoring 14 goals in 26 matches in 2000–01. After Porto chairman Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa quarrelled with his agent José Veiga, the player refused to part with his agent and left, joining Lisbon side S.L. Benfica, going on to score seven goals in 29 matches during two seasons.
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Minervino Pietra
Minervino José Lopes Pietra (born 1 March 1954) is a retired Portuguese footballer who played as a right defender.
Born in Lisbon, Pietra started his professional career with local C.F. Os Belenenses, collecting 99 appearances in the top division in his five-year spell, with ten goals. In 1976, the 22-year old moved to city - and national - giants S.L. Benfica, where he would remain until his retirement.
With the Reds, Pietra won, always as an important defensive unit, the league in 1976–77, 1980–81, 1982–83 and 1983–84, adding five domestic cups. In 11 seasons, he amassed a further 229 league matches, scoring on 14 occasions. He also helped the club to the 1982–83 UEFA Cup final, lost to Belgium's R.S.C. Anderlecht (0–1 abroad, 1–1 at home).
In the mid-1990s, Pietra began working as a manager, successively with Boavista FC, Belenenses, Benfica, F.C. Alverca (under former Benfica teammate António Veloso, his fullback counterpart), F.C. Barreirense and G.D. Estoril Praia, the latter two as head coach. After nearly one decade out of the game, in 2009, he returned to Benfica, joining Jorge Jesus' coaching staff.
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Mário Coluna
Mário Esteves Coluna (Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈmaɾiu kuˈlunɐ]; born August 6, 1935 at Inhaca, Portuguese East Africa) is a former Portuguese footballer. He was primarily a left-half and was nicknamed the "O Monstro Sagrado" ('The sacred monster').
Coluna was first noticed in Mozambique, playing at Desportivo of Lourenço Marques, where he was assigned to Benfica in 1954/55, the team he played until 1969/70. He won 10 National Championships, in 1954/55, 1956/57, 1959/60, 1960/61, 1962/63, 1963/64, 1964/65, 1966/67, 1967/68 and 1968/69, and 6 Cups of Portugal in 1955, 1957, 1959, 1962, 1964 and 1969. He won the European Cup twice with Benfica, in 1961 and 1962, and also played in the finals of 1963, 1965 and 1968, this last time as the captain. In the 8 of December 1970, Coluna made is farewell game in Estádio da Luz with Benfica before moving to Lyon. In this tribute to his career, were invited to play some of the biggest football stars back then (Cruiff, Hurst, Suarez, Bobby Moore, and many others).
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Mário Wilson
Mário Wilson (born 17 October 1929) is a Mozambican retired football central defender and manager.
He played in 280 Portuguese first division games over the course of 14 seasons, mainly in representation of Académica.
Subsequently, he embarked in a lengthy managerial career in the country, which lasted more than 30 years and also included two spells at his main club, and several more at Benfica.
Born in Lourenço Marques, Portuguese Mozambique, Wilson joined Sporting Clube de Portugal in 1949 aged 19, arriving from local Grupo Desportivo de Lourenço Marques. He started his career as a forward.
After two seasons with the Lions, Wilson signed for fellow top division outfit Académica de Coimbra, where he would remain for the rest of his career, retiring in June 1963 at nearly 34 years of age. His best individual season was 1951–52 when he scored five goals in 24 games for the Students, who finished in 7th position (out of 14 teams).
One year after retiring, Wilson begun working as a coach, spending his first five years with Académica - which he led to a best-ever second position in 1966–67, as well as the season's Portuguese Cup final - then working three seasons with C.F. Os Belenenses. He first managed S.L. Benfica in the 1975–76 campaign, winning the national championship; during his early spell with the Reds, he coined the phrase "Anyone who coaches Benfica risks being champion", having been dubbed whilst still a player O Velho Capitão (Portuguese for "The Old Captain").
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Nelson Évora
Nelson Évora (born April 20, 1984) is a Portuguese athlete, of Cape Verdean descent, who specializes in the triple jump and long jump. He is the current triple jump olympic and former world champion. Évora currently competes for Portuguese sports club S.L. Benfica. He represented Cape Verde until 2002, when he got Portuguese citizenship, in June that year.
Born in Côte d'Ivoire, where his parents had come to live from Cape Verde, Nelson and his family relocated to Portugal when he was five years old. He still holds the Cape Verdean records in both the long jump (7.57 m) and the triple jump (16.15 m).
Évora's family fixed in Odivelas, on the floor upon João Ganço, former Portugal record-holder and first man in Portugal to pass over 2m in the high jump. David Ganço, one of three sons of João Ganço, one year older than Nelson, became Évora's best friend. One day, João Ganço, seeing them playing in the street, suggested Nelson to start practicing athletics, following David's example, and, just like that, Nelson sportive career was started. João Ganço, then became Évora's coach.
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Nemanja Matić
Nemanja Matić (Serbian Cyrillic: Немања Матић; Serbo-Croatian pronunciation: [nɛmaɲa matitɕ]; born 1 August 1988) is a Serbian football midfielder who currently plays for Benfica. He also has 2 caps for the Serbian national side.
At the age of 16 in 2004, Matić was called up for Serbian side FK Kolubara full squad. Matić played three season there amassing 16 appearances. After impressing in the Serbian League Belgrade (3rd tier) he was bought by Slovakian club MFK Košice of the Corgoň Liga. He impressed during his time in Slovakia making 67 Corgoň Liga appearances and scoring 4 goals; helping them gain 4th spot in the league during the 2008–09 campaign. He also impressed in the Slovak Cup helping his team defeat FC Artmedia Petržalka in the cup final at NTC Stadion in Senec. Košice won the game 3–1 and gained a berth in the first edition of the UEFA Europa League.
Nemanja has dual-nationality. He holds Serbian citizenship by birthright, and he later obtained Slovak status. After having a trial early in the 2008–2009 Premiership season, it was believed Middlesbrough F.C. were leading the pack to sign the young Serbian star, but the trial was cut short as he was called up for Serbia's full squad for a friendly against Denmark. In the summer months there was much speculation in England that Matić might return to the Premier League with a hosts of clubs after him including Tottenham and Chelsea.
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Nené
Tamagnini Manuel Gomes Baptista, aka Nené (Portuguese pronunciation: [nɛˈnɛ]; born 20 November 1949), is a retired Portuguese footballer.
A striker, he played his entire career with Sport Lisboa e Benfica, appearing in nearly 600 official games for the club.
Gaining nearly 70 caps for Portugal and scoring more than 20 goals, Nené represented the nation at Euro 1984.
Born in Leça da Palmeira, Nené made his professional debuts with S.L. Benfica in 1968, and remained a key fixture with the side until his retirement almost twenty years later, at nearly 37. In 1972–73, he was a star player for a side which became national champion without a single defeat (28 matches won - 23 consecutively - out of 30). The team scored 101 goals, breaking 100 for only the second time in its history.
Nené was the Portuguese Footballer of the Year in 1971 and also runner-up in 1972, which was achieved whilst competing with teammate Eusébio. He ranked second in Benfica's scoring lists in European competitions with 28 goals in 75 appearances, and played in the 1982–83 UEFA Cup finals, in a loss to R.S.C. Anderlecht.
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Nicolás Gaitán
Osvaldo Nicolás Fabián Gaitán (born 23 February 1988 in San Martín, Buenos Aires) is an Argentine footballer who currently plays as a Attacking Midfielder for S.L. Benfica in the Portuguese first division and for the Argentine national team.
Gaitán comes from the youth of the club Boca Juniors and was promoted to the first team. Gaitán made his competitive debut with Boca Juniors in a 3–1 win over Arsenal de Sarandí on 1 June 2008. He scored his first two league goals for the club in a 3–0 away win over Club Atlético Huracán on 31 August 2008. That day was the author of 2 of the 3 goals with Boca Junior defeated Huracán. On 23 September 2009, Gaitán scored his first goal in international tournaments, the Copa Sudamericana, in the Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Quito. Two days later, he again entered on the scoreboard in the 4-2 win over Newell's Old Boys. That day also attended Lucas Viatri in the fourth goal for his team. On October 26 , at Rosario Central , Gaitán gave the victory to his team after turning in the final minutes of the match. During the Clausura 2009 framework will Godoy Cruz at the time 7 and the game ended 1 to 1. The 2009–10 Argentine Primera División season was discovered a new side of it (as far ) and he scored 2 goals to Tigre , on the 9th day, a Goal to Chacarita Juniors in the 11th and the 15th sealed the win of 4-0 against Gimnasia La Plata.
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Nuno Gomes
Nuno Miguel Soares Pereira Ribeiro (born 5 July 1976), commonly known as Nuno Gomes, is a Portuguese footballer who plays for S.C. Braga as a striker.
He was given the nickname Gomes during childhood after F.C. Porto great Fernando Gomes, and was one of the country's most recognisable offensive players in the 1990s/2000s; he consistently scored for both club and country, and was capable of being a good link-up player, accumulating a number of assists throughout his career, which was spent mainly with Benfica, for which he netted 166 times in 398 games, over the course of 12 professional seasons.
Gomes represented Portugal in two World Cups and three European Championships - helping the national team finish third at Euro 2000 - winning more than 100 caps all categories comprised (nearly 80 for the senior side alone).
Born in Amarante, Gomes established his reputation with Boavista FC, where he made his top division debut in the 1994–95 season, aged 18.
He collected his first silverware as Boavista beat Sport Lisboa e Benfica to lift the Portuguese Cup in 1996–97, and scored 23 goals in 79 appearances in three years for the northerners, including 15 in his last term, before moving to Benfica.
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Nélson Oliveira
Nélson Miguel Castro Oliveira (born 8 August 1991) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica as a striker.
Born in Barcelos, Oliveira finished his youth career at S.L. Benfica, having arrived at age 15 from Sporting de Braga, being a prolific scorer for both clubs. He made his first team debut in a 2008–09 pre-season friendly against G.D. Estoril Praia, courtesy of manager Quique Flores, and was even called to a UEFA Cup match against S.S.C. Napoli, but eventually returned to the juniors.
The same happened to Oliveira in 2009–10. However, in January 2010, he made his professional – and first division – debuts, being loaned until June to Rio Ave FC; his first game came on 7 February, as he played the last 10 minutes of the 2–0 home win against Leixões SC.
Oliveira's loan was initially extended for the entirety of the 2010–11 season but, on 12 August 2010, he moved to F.C. Paços de Ferreira, in the same predicament. He scored on his debut on 12 September, a 1–1 draw at C.S. Marítimo and, the following month, helped Paços come from behind at Associação Naval 1º de Maio (2–1), scoring the winning goal from a direct free kick.
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Ola John
Ola John (born 19 May 1992) is a Liberian-born Dutch footballer who plays as a winger for Sport Lisboa e Benfica, in the Portuguese Liga.
As a 2-year-old Ola fled with his mother and brothers from Liberia to the Netherlands. His father was killed during the bloody First Liberian Civil War. He did not return to the African continent until the Youth World Championship in Nigeria in 2009. Like his brothers Collins and Paddy, Ola joined the youth academy of FC Twente.
The 2011-12 season was the big breaktrough for Ola at Twente, as he got a starting place from Co Adriaanse at the start of the season, and did not lose that even with competition for the left forward position, as Nacer Chadli returned from injury. He also topped the UEFA Europa League group stage assist rankings with six assists. In Twente's home match in the Europa League against Odense BK on 3 November, John provided all three assists in a 3-2 win. John was influential in the Eredivisie campaign as well, netting two goals in a 6-2 victory over FC Utrecht on 4 December 2011.
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Otto Glória
Otto Martins Glória (born 9 January 1917 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - died 4 September 1986) was a Brazilian football (soccer) coach. He had his greatest successes with SL Benfica in Lisbon, Portugal, which he guided to nine national trophies. With the Nigerian national football team he won the 1980 African Cup of Nations
In his first period with Benfica, the club was transformed to professional standards. Otto Glória founded a home for the players and focused on recruiting players from the periphery of the Portuguese capital and also from the African overseas provinces. In these years between 1954 and 1959 the club won two Portuguese championships and three cups.
In February 1962 he takes on the reins with Olympique Marseille. The club was then stuck in the second division and saw its aspirations to return to the first division endangered. In his four months with the club did not lose a single match and achieved its objective.
In his second tenure with Benfica he had continuous success on the national level, winning two more championships and cups. He also led the club into the 1968 final of the European Cup of Champions in London against Manchester United, which was lost 1-4.
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Pablo Aimar
Pablo César Aimar Giordano (born 3 November 1979) is an Argentine professional footballer who plays for Sport Lisboa e Benfica in the Portuguese first division. An attacking midfielder with a vast array of skills, he also holds a Spanish passport.
He amassed La Liga totals of 215 games and 32 goals over the course of eight seasons, mainly with Valencia. He also played several years in Portugal with Benfica.
Aimar gained more than 50 caps for Argentina during one full decade, representing the nation in two World Cups and as many Copa América tournaments.
Born in Río Cuarto, Córdoba, Aimar began his ascent to stardom with Club Atlético River Plate, whose first team he joined for the 1997–98 season, after rejecting a place at medical school, and with whom he quickly established himself as one of the best young players in Argentina.
Valencia CF of Spain signed Aimar in January 2001, at a price of €24 million. The purchase proved justified, as Aimar helped lead the team to a first-place finish in La Liga in 2001–02 (with 33 matches and four goals), as well as to a runners-up finish in the previous seasons's UEFA Champions League, being defeated by FC Bayern Munich. Aimar also won the 2004 UEFA Cup, appearing in eight (scoreless) matches during the campaign; this included the final against Olympique de Marseille, where he replaced Francisco Rufete with 30 minutes to go.
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Paulo Autuori
Paulo Autuori de Mello (born on August 25, 1956 in Rio de Janeiro) is a Brazilian football manager.
He is graduated in Physical Education at Universidade Castelo Branco; and attended a Sport Admninstration course at PUC-RJ and a Soccer Coach Course at UERJ.
He coached some teams from Portugal: Nacional, Vitória de Guimarães, Marítimo and Benfica; from Brazil: Portuguesa (RJ), Botafogo, Cruzeiro, Flamengo, Internacional, Santos and São Paulo; and from Peru: Alianza Lima, Sporting Cristal and the Peru national team.
On the end of April 2005, just before quiting Peru, he was hired by São Paulo FC to replace Émerson Leão, who had just gone to Japan. In that year, he won the Copa Libertadores 2005 and the 2005 FIFA Club World Championship.
On December 29, 2005, he resigned São Paulo to sign with Kashima Antlers, from Japan. At the end of 2006 he announced his new club as Cruzeiro E.C., this was his third time at the club.
On November 12, 2009, Paulo Autuori has decided to leave Gremio, after have reached an agreement with the club. Gremio decided to let free the manager, because they can't win the championship title.
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Pál Csernai
Pál Csernai (born 21 October 1932) was a Hungarian football (soccer) player and coach. As a player he was denied great successes, but as a coach he revived the fortunes of Bayern Munich in the early 1980s after the end of their golden era.
His family were Szekely from Transylvania according to his surname, which meaning "Came from Cserna (now Cerne, Romania)". Not many details of his achievements are known (→ talk:Pál Csernai). He played in Hungary's first division, with Csepel SC from Budapest and was reasonably good. After all, in 1955 he was called twice to play for his country, and that was still in the era of the all-dominating Magic Magyars.
Like so many other greats of the game in this era, he left Hungary as a consequence of the uprising in 1956. He ended up playing in Germany where joined 1956 Karlsruher SC, then in the first division. From 1959 to 1965 he played for Stuttgarter Kickers in the second division. In 1962 Csernai scored a decisive goal for the club, preventing them from being relegated to the third tier.
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Quique Flores
Enrique "Quique" Sánchez Flores (born 5 February 1965 in Madrid) is a Spanish retired footballer who played as a right defender, and a current manager.
During his 13-year professional career, he played mainly for Valencia (ten seasons, nine in La Liga), retiring in 1997 and going on to have a lengthy managerial career, which included his main club.
Flores represented Spain at the 1990 World Cup.
During his playing career, Flores spent ten seasons with Valencia CF, starting in 1984–85. However, at first, he did not enjoy his time at the Estadio Mestalla as the club were relegated in his second season, and when they got back into La Liga, finished 14th in 1987–88. However, from that point until 1994, the team never finished lower than 7th, with Sánchez as an everpresent fixture.
In 1994, Flores moved to Real Madrid and stayed with the capital club for two seasons, winning the league title in the first one. Subsequently, he had a brief spell with Real Zaragoza, retiring from professional football at the age of 32, with Spanish top flight totals of 304 games and 16 goals; in his only season in Segunda División, as Valencia won the championship in 1987, he posted career-highs with 40 games and nine goals.
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Raúl Machado
Raúl Martins Machado (born 22 September 1937, Matosinhos) is a retired Portuguese footballer. He played for Leixões and Benfica in the Portuguese Liga, as a central defender.
Machado gained 11 caps for the Portugal national team.
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Ricardo Gomes
Ricardo Gomes Raimundo, known as Gomes (born 13 December 1964), is a Brazilian retired footballer who played as a central defender, and the current coach of CR Vasco da Gama.
In a 14-year professional career, he played for Fluminense (six years), Benfica (four) and Paris Saint-Germain (four). Subsequently, he went on to have a lengthy managerial career, in both his country and France.
Gomes played for Brazil during the 80's/90's, representing the nation at the 1990 World Cup and in two Copa América tournaments.
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Gomes started playing professionally with Fluminense Football Club. With the club, he won three consecutive state leagues, adding the 1984 Série A.
In the 1988 summer, he signed with S.L. Benfica of Portugal, alongside compatriot Valdo, a midfielder. Both were important elements in their debut season, as the Reds won the national championship, a feat which was again accomplished in 1991, with the defender scoring an astonishing 17 goals in both conquests combined, due to his superb aerial ability.
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Roderick Miranda
Roderick Jefferson Gonçalves Miranda (born 30 March 1991 in Odivelas), simply Roderick, is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Servette FC on loan from S.L. Benfica, as a central defender.
Roderick arrived in S.L. Benfica's youth academy in 2000 (aged nine), from Lisbon neighbours Odivelas Futebol Clube. He was promoted to the first team nine years later, after having played in all the youth ranks of the Portuguese League giants, and appeared in some pre-season and League Cup matches in his debut campaign.
For 2011–12, Roderick was loaned to Servette FC in Switzerland – coached by former Benfica player João Alves – in a season-long move.
Updated on 16/01/2011
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Ronald Koeman
Ronald Koeman (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈroʊ̯.nɑɫt ˈku.mɑn], born 21 March 1963 in Zaandam, Noord-Holland) is a former Dutch footballer, and the current manager of Feyenoord. He is the younger brother of former Feyenoord coach Erwin Koeman and the son of former Dutch international Martin Koeman. He was renowned for his long-range accuracy, especially in free kicks.
In 1980 Koeman started his professional career at Groningen. After playing for Ajax, PSV and FC Barcelona, he finished his career in Feyenoord. During his career he won two UEFA European Cup titles, five Dutch championships, three Dutch Cups, four Spanish championships, one Spanish Cup and he was also in the winning Dutch national team at the UEFA Euro 1988.
Besides being a defender at the centreback position, Koeman was also known for his powerful right-footed freekicks and deadball ability where he scored many vital goals for the team, and it was from a free kick that he scored Barcelona's winning goal in the 1992 European Cup final. His nickname while playing for Barcelona was Floquet de Neu, after the famous albino gorilla in the Barcelona Zoo. Ronald Koeman currently holds the record for 25 consecutive successful penalty conversions in La Liga.
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Rúben Pinto
Rúben Rafael Melo Silva Pinto (born 24 April 1992) is a Portuguese footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica as an attacking midfielder.
Pinto joined S.L. Benfica's youth system at the age of 14, and scored 29 goals in his last two junior seasons combined. In July 2011, he was summoned to the first team's preseason.
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Sven-Göran Eriksson
Sven-Göran Eriksson (Swedish pronunciation: [svɛnˈjœː.ˈran ˈeːrɪk.ˈsɔn] ( listen); born 5 February 1948), in Sweden commonly referred to just by his nickname Svennis, is a Swedish former football manager.
Eriksson won 17 major trophies as a manager, with a variety of league clubs in Sweden, Portugal and Italy, between 1979 and 2000, and became the first manager to win league-and-cup doubles in three different countries. He later managed the national teams of England, Mexico and Côte d'Ivoire, and three clubs in England.
Born in Sunne and raised in Torsby, in Värmland, Eriksson had an unremarkable playing career playing as a right-back in the lower divisions of Swedish football. The highest level he played at was Division 2 with Karlskoga, where he met Tord Grip, before being forced into an early retirement owing to a knee injury in 1975 aged 27.
Having retired as a player, Eriksson received an offer to become Tord Grip's assistant at Degerfors. A year later, Grip was appointed assistant manager of the Swedish national team, and Eriksson became Degerfors' manager, winning promotion to Division 2 in 1978.
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Takis Fyssas
Panagiotis "Takis" Fyssas (born 12 June 1973) is a former Greek international footballer. He is currently technical director of the Hellenic Football Federation.
Fyssas started his career in the Panionios youth academy, achieving his senior debut in the 1990-91 season. After eight seasons in Nea Smyrni, which included a Greek Cup triumph.
he signed for Athens giants Panathinaikos in 1998. The increased exposure Fyssas received playing at the Spiros Louis ensured a rapid elevation to the Greek national side and he made his debut against Finland in 1999. Fyssas also made his first UEFA Champions League appearance while with the Greens, in the 2000-01 season.
In December 2003 he moved to Lisbon with Benfica, where he was to stay for a season and a half, helping the Eagles claim the 2003-04 Portuguese Cup and 2004-05 Portuguese Liga. On 25 January 2004, he was on the bench for a 1–0 away win against future club Vitória de Guimarães, a game overshadowed by the tragic death of his team mate Miklós Fehér. He scored a goal on the final of Portuguese Cup that season, that gave them the victory against FC Porto. During this spell came the pinnacle of Fyssas's career: Greece's surprise victory at the 2004 European Championships. He played in all six of Greece's matches (starting five) and displayed a mixture of uncompromising defending and attacking verve on the left flank in the unlikely triumph.
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Tamagnini Nené
Tamagnini Manuel Gomes Baptista, aka Nené (Portuguese pronunciation: [nɛˈnɛ]; born 20 November 1949), is a retired Portuguese footballer.
A striker, he played his entire career with Sport Lisboa e Benfica, appearing in nearly 600 official games for the club.
Gaining nearly 70 caps for Portugal and scoring more than 20 goals, Nené represented the nation at Euro 1984.
Born in Leça da Palmeira, Nené made his professional debuts with S.L. Benfica in 1968, and remained a key fixture with the side until his retirement almost twenty years later, at nearly 37. In 1972–73, he was a star player for a side which became national champion without a single defeat (28 matches won - 23 consecutively - out of 30). The team scored 101 goals, breaking 100 for only the second time in its history.
Nené was the Portuguese Footballer of the Year in 1971 and also runner-up in 1972, which was achieved whilst competing with teammate Eusébio. He ranked second in Benfica's scoring lists in European competitions with 28 goals in 75 appearances, and played in the 1982–83 UEFA Cup finals, in a loss to R.S.C. Anderlecht.
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Telma Monteiro
Telma Monteiro (born 27 December 1985) is a Portuguese judoka from the city of Almada. She is currently in the number two spot on the world ranking list. She is also a multi-time medal winner in both World and European Championships and Cups. She won silver medals in the last European and World Championships.
Since July 21, 2007, Telma Monteiro has joined S.L. Benfica.
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Tomislav Ivić
Tomislav Ivić (30 June 1933 – 24 June 2011) was a Croatian football player and manager.
Often described as a brilliant strategist, Ivić is credited with helping develop the modern style of the game. In April 2007 the Italian sports daily La Gazzetta dello Sport proclaimed him as the most successful football manager in history, due to his 7 league titles won in 6 different countries.
Ivić managed teams in 14 different countries along with 4 national teams, and he won titles and cups in six countries (Yugoslavia, The Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Portugal and Spain). He won seven top flight championships (3 in Yugoslavia, and 1 each in Greece, Portugal, The Netherlands and Belgium), 6 national cups (4 in Yugoslavia and 1 each in Spain and Portugal), an UEFA Super Cup and an Intercontinental Cup.
Throughout his career, he managed in ten countries. At his homeland, he coached RNK Split, Hajduk Split, Dinamo Zagreb and the national team; at Netherlands, he coached Ajax; at Belgium, Anderlecht and Standard Liège; at Turkey, Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe; Avellino, his only experience at Italy; Panathinaikos in Greece; in Portugal, he coached FC Porto and Benfica; In France, he managed Paris Saint Germain and Olympique de Marseille (this one, his last club before retiring, in 2002); At Spain, Atlético Madrid; In United Arab Emirates, Al Wasl FC and the national team; And, in Iran, Persepolis and the national selection (which he almost coached at qualification for 1998 FIFA World Cup).
wn.com/Tomislav_Ivić -
Valdo Filho
Valdo Cândido de Oliveira Filho, simply Valdo (born 12 January 1964), is a retired Brazilian footballer who played as a central midfielder.
In a senior career which spanned more than two decades, he played professionally – other than in his own country – in Portugal, France and Japan.
Having appeared more than 40 times for Brazil, Valdo represented the nation in two World Cups and as many Copa América tournaments.
Born in Siderópolis, Santa Catarina, Valdo began playing football with Figueirense Futebol Clube, making his professional debuts with Grêmio Football Porto-Alegrense, with which he won four consecutive Rio Grande do Sul Leagues.
In the 1988 summer, he signed with S.L. Benfica of Portugal, alongside compatriot Ricardo Gomes, a central defender. Both were important elements in their debut season, as the Reds won the national championship, a feat which was again accomplished in 1991, with the midfielder netting five goals in 26 matches.
Both Valdo and Gomes left for Paris Saint-Germain F.C. in the 1991 summer, and both would return four years later to the Lisbon side, having won a total of four titles, namely the 1993–94 first division title. In his second Benfica spell, he played in 30 league matches in each of his two seasons, winning the domestic cup in 1996.
wn.com/Valdo_Filho -
Vítor Silva
Vítor Marcolino da Silva (Lisbon, 20 February 1909-21 July 1982) was a Portuguese footballer. He was one of the first great forwards both for Benfica as for Portugal.
Vítor Silva played for Benfica, from 1927/28 to 1935/36, when he had to leave competition, aged only 27, after a serious injury. He won three titles of the Championship of Portugal, in 1929/30, 1930/31 and 1934/35, and the first ever title of the Portuguese I League, in 1935/36.
He had 19 caps for Portugal, scoring 8 goals, since his first game, a 2-2 draw with Spain, at 8 January 1928, in Lisbon, in a friendly, aged only 18, to his last, a 1-3 loss to Germany, in Lisbon, at 27 February 1936, in Lisbon.
The highlight of his international career was his presence at the 1928 Football Olympic Tournament, where he played in all the three matches, scoring three goals, one in each of them and being the top scorer for Portugal, who was eliminated at the quarter-finals by Egypt, due to a 1-2 loss.
wn.com/Vítor_Silva -
Yannick Djaló
Yannick dos Santos Djaló (born 5 May 1986) is a Guinea-Bissauan-born Portuguese footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica mainly as a forward - he can also operate as a winger.
Born in Bissau, Djaló was brought up through Sporting Clube de Portugal's prolific youth system, and made his first division debut on 16 September 2006, playing the second half of a 0–1 home loss against F.C. Paços de Ferreira. He proved himself a quality player, often coming off the bench, and also appeared in Sporting's UEFA Champions League campaign, renewing during the season his contract with Sporting until 2013.
On 6 April 2008, after a four-month absence due to injury, Djaló scored both goals in a 2–0 home win over Sporting de Braga, having also scored the previous week, off the bench, in a 4–1 away success over Associação Naval 1º de Maio. He finished 2007–08 in good form, netting the only goal in a win at Paços de Ferreira, which proved crucial in helping the side to retain its second place in the league. In the season's Portuguese Cup, he netted twice in a thrilling 5–3 semi-final win against city-rivals S.L. Benfica.
wn.com/Yannick_Djaló -
Ángel di María
Ángel Fabián di María Hernández (born 14 February 1988) is an Argentine footballer who currently plays as a winger for Spanish La Liga club Real Madrid and the Argentine national team. He is nicknamed El Angelito, Di Magia, El Flaco, El Pibito and Fideo, the Spanish word for noodle.
Di María started his professional football career in 2005 when he made his debut for Rosario Central. He originally lived in Malta where he was raised until the age of nine. In January 2007, he had an opportunity to play in the Russian Premier League when Rubin Kazan offered him a contract. At first, he agreed, but soon afterwards, he changed his mind and turned down the offer. After putting up a remarkable performance in the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup, playing for Argentina, di María caught the eye of several European teams and in the end, SL Benfica of Portugal signed him.
Di María was transferred to Portuguese side Benfica in July 2007 where he played as a midfielder. Benfica paid Rosario Central €6 million for 80% of his sports rights and 50% of sports right of Andrés Díaz. Later, in August 2008, the Portuguese club paid an extra €2 million for the remaining 20%,, but re-sold 10% to GestiFute.
wn.com/Ángel_di_María -
Éder Luís
Éder Luís de Oliveira (born 19 April 1985 in Uberaba), simply known as Éder Luís, is a Brazilian striker. He currently plays for Vasco da Gama, on loan from Benfica.
On December 29, 2009 Éder signed with Portuguese club Benfica for the second half of the 2009/10 season. Benfica purchased 50% of the player's rights for two million euros.
In June 2010, he was loaned to Vasco da Gama along with Fellipe Bastos until June 2012.
wn.com/Éder_Luís -
Óscar Cardozo
Óscar René Cardozo Marín (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈo̞skaɾ re̞ˈne̞ karˈð̞o̞so̞ maˈɾin], born 20 May 1983) is a Paraguayan footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in Portugal, as a striker.
Known for his powerful left-foot shot and free-kick skills, he first gained notoriety whilst playing for Newell's Old Boys, which led to a move to Benfica, where he scored more than 100 official goals and won four major titles, namely the 2010 national championship, where he also was the top scorer.
Nicknamed "Tacuara" (Big cane in Guarani), Cardozo gained more than 50 caps for Paraguay, representing the nation at the 2010 World Cup.
Born in Juan Eulogio Estigarribia, Cardozo started his senior career with modest Club Atlético 3 de Febrero of Ciudad del Este, helping it to the second division championship. In 2004, he moved to the top level with Asunción's Club Nacional, where he quickly established himself as the team's top scorer, netting 17 overall goals in his last season.
Cardozo arrived at Argentina and Newell's Old Boys in the second half of the 2006–07 season for a transfer fee of $1.2 million, joining compatriots Diego Gavilán, Santiago Salcedo and Justo Villar. He scored 11 goals in only 16 games in the Apertura, but his team could only finish 18th in the tournament, and 13th overall; as a result of his performances, he was voted the 2006 Paraguayan Footballer of the Year.
wn.com/Óscar_Cardozo
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SL Benfica - The Glorious Ones | 2012 HD
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 1:39
- Updated: 14 Dec 2012
A Team with History and Tradition. A Team of Glory. SL Benfica. • Made by Cap3650Dk • YouTube - www.youtube.com • Facebook - www.facebook.com • Music - The Funeral by Band of Horses Cap3650Dk´s Videos © | Like, comment and Subscribe. Enjoy the video.
http://wn.com/SL_Benfica_The_Glorious_Ones_|_2012_HD
A Team with History and Tradition. A Team of Glory. SL Benfica. • Made by Cap3650Dk • YouTube - www.youtube.com • Facebook - www.facebook.com • Music - The Funeral by Band of Horses Cap3650Dk´s Videos © | Like, comment and Subscribe. Enjoy the video.
Sporting CP - Benfica 3-6 Primeira Liga 1993-1994
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 8:23
- Updated: 11 Dec 2012
Date: 14/05/1994 Goals: 8' Cadete (SP) , 30' João Pinto(B) , 35' Luis Figo(S) , 37' João Pinto(B), 44' João Pinto(B) , 48' Isaías(B) , 57' Isaías (B) , 74' Helder (B) , 80 Balakov (penalty) (S) An exciting game!
http://wn.com/Sporting_CP_Benfica_3-6_Primeira_Liga_1993-1994
Date: 14/05/1994 Goals: 8' Cadete (SP) , 30' João Pinto(B) , 35' Luis Figo(S) , 37' João Pinto(B), 44' João Pinto(B) , 48' Isaías(B) , 57' Isaías (B) , 74' Helder (B) , 80 Balakov (penalty) (S) An exciting game!
- published: 13 Oct 2012
- views: 1566
- author: TheFootballMemories
Sporting 1-3 Benfica com Relato Desporto na Hora
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 9:30
- Updated: 17 Dec 2012
Sporting CP 1-3 SL Benfica 11ª jornada Liga Portuguesa com relato "Desporto na Hora" de João Nunes e Gonçalo Giestas, comentários de Tiago Fonseca e reportagem de António Botelho. Um simultâneo Rádio N (www.radio.nfm.pt), Rádio Clube Paços de Ferreira, Rádio Voz do Sorraia e Rádio Índico
http://wn.com/Sporting_1-3_Benfica_com_Relato_Desporto_na_Hora
Sporting CP 1-3 SL Benfica 11ª jornada Liga Portuguesa com relato "Desporto na Hora" de João Nunes e Gonçalo Giestas, comentários de Tiago Fonseca e reportagem de António Botelho. Um simultâneo Rádio N (www.radio.nfm.pt), Rádio Clube Paços de Ferreira, Rádio Voz do Sorraia e Rádio Índico
- published: 12 Dec 2012
- views: 3347
- author: António Botelho
Ola John - SL Benfica || Skills, goals, assists || HD
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 3:46
- Updated: 15 Dec 2012
Ola John - SL Benfica || Skills, goals, assists || HD Watch in HD Name: Ola John Current Team: SL Benfica Positions: Forward Age: 20 years old (19-05-1992) Height: 180cm Weight: 80kg Nationality: Netherlands *COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER* Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. It is not to be used for copying and selling. No copyright infringement intended whatsoever.
http://wn.com/Ola_John_SL_Benfica_||_Skills,_goals,_assists_||_HD
Ola John - SL Benfica || Skills, goals, assists || HD Watch in HD Name: Ola John Current Team: SL Benfica Positions: Forward Age: 20 years old (19-05-1992) Height: 180cm Weight: 80kg Nationality: Netherlands *COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER* Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. It is not to be used for copying and selling. No copyright infringement intended whatsoever.
- published: 13 Jun 2012
- views: 28567
- author: NeokHD
SL Benfica - Success *1080p* (By RedLifeBenfica)
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 3:43
- Updated: 15 Dec 2012
Sera o Benfica campeao 2011/2012? Carrega Benfica! Original Song: The Island - My name is Lincon :D MORE TAGS:Arsenal, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, Birmingham City, Bolton, Chelsea, Derby County, Everton, Fulham, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Middlesbrough, Newcastle United, Portsmouth, Reading, Sunderland, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Wigan Athletic. Academica, Leiria, Belenenses, Leixoes ,Maritimo ,Setubal ,SL Benfica ,Sporting CP, FC Porto ,Estrela da Amadora ,Sporting de Braga ,Paços de Ferreira ,Boavista. manchester united, sporting lisbon, portugal, english premier league, skills, goals, rabona hocus pocus, sent off rooney, world cup, CR7, CR17, amazing goal, joga bonito, champions league, carling cup league cup, fa cup, skillz, freekick, penalty, bbc motd, skysports, setanta sports, itv sport, nike vapor, rooney, nani, tevez, giggs, alex ferguson, pfa player of the year, pfa young player of the year. Luis Figo,Zidane,Rui Costa,Ricardo Quaresma,Cristiano Ronaldo,Lionel Messi,Ronaldinho,Adebayor,Fabregas,Henry ,Nani,roullete,pana,nutmeg,rabona manchester champions league season 2007-2008 70/08 alarazboy united,arsenal,chelsea,liverpool,gerrard ,ibrahimovic,robinho,real madrid,inter milano,pato,milan,uefa champions league,barcelona,porto,portugal manchester united, sporting lisbon, portugal,FC Porto, english premier league, skills, goals, rabona hocus pocus, Gemiliano , sent off rooney, world cup, euro08 , CR7, CR17,RQ7,RQ27,RQ17,euro08 ...
http://wn.com/SL_Benfica_Success_*1080p*_By_RedLifeBenfica
Sera o Benfica campeao 2011/2012? Carrega Benfica! Original Song: The Island - My name is Lincon :D MORE TAGS:Arsenal, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, Birmingham City, Bolton, Chelsea, Derby County, Everton, Fulham, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Middlesbrough, Newcastle United, Portsmouth, Reading, Sunderland, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Wigan Athletic. Academica, Leiria, Belenenses, Leixoes ,Maritimo ,Setubal ,SL Benfica ,Sporting CP, FC Porto ,Estrela da Amadora ,Sporting de Braga ,Paços de Ferreira ,Boavista. manchester united, sporting lisbon, portugal, english premier league, skills, goals, rabona hocus pocus, sent off rooney, world cup, CR7, CR17, amazing goal, joga bonito, champions league, carling cup league cup, fa cup, skillz, freekick, penalty, bbc motd, skysports, setanta sports, itv sport, nike vapor, rooney, nani, tevez, giggs, alex ferguson, pfa player of the year, pfa young player of the year. Luis Figo,Zidane,Rui Costa,Ricardo Quaresma,Cristiano Ronaldo,Lionel Messi,Ronaldinho,Adebayor,Fabregas,Henry ,Nani,roullete,pana,nutmeg,rabona manchester champions league season 2007-2008 70/08 alarazboy united,arsenal,chelsea,liverpool,gerrard ,ibrahimovic,robinho,real madrid,inter milano,pato,milan,uefa champions league,barcelona,porto,portugal manchester united, sporting lisbon, portugal,FC Porto, english premier league, skills, goals, rabona hocus pocus, Gemiliano , sent off rooney, world cup, euro08 , CR7, CR17,RQ7,RQ27,RQ17,euro08 ...
- published: 05 Feb 2012
- views: 9252
- author: RedLifeBenfica
Benfica vs Juventus 1-1 All Goals & Highlights - 01/08/2012 - HD
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:14
- Updated: 14 Dec 2012
Benfica Lisbon vs Juventus - 01/08/2012
http://wn.com/Benfica_vs_Juventus_1-1_All_Goals_Highlights_01_08_2012_HD
Referee knocked out during a friendly match - Düsseldorf vs Benfica - 11/08/2012
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 3:11
- Updated: 04 Dec 2012
Referee knocked out during a friendly match
http://wn.com/Referee_knocked_out_during_a_friendly_match_Düsseldorf_vs_Benfica_11_08_2012
Juventus Vs Benfica- 17/3/1993 1992--93 UEFA Cup Quarter-finals
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 104:55
- Updated: 08 Dec 2012
en.wikipedia.org
http://wn.com/Juventus_Vs_Benfica_17_3_1993_1992--93_UEFA_Cup_Quarter-finals
juventus Vs Benfica 1-1 All Goals & Highlights
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:14
- Updated: 18 Oct 2012
juventus Vs Benfica 1-1 All Goals & Hightlights Benfica Vs Juventus 1-1 All Goals & Hightlights friendly match 1/8/2012 Tags::real madrid vs barcelona 1-1 16.04.2011 xavi hernandez la pelopina skill dribble andres iniesta victor valdes david villa lionel messi sergio busquets dani alves gerard pique fontas dos santos thiago alcantara la masia ballon dor tiki taka rooney 5-0 1-0 2-0 3-0 4-0 6-0 1-1 2-1 3-1 4-1 5-2 4-2 3-3 barcelona barca real madrid camp nou pedro goal passing leo blaugrana santander sevilla passing game panathinaikos zaragoza ceuta beautiful sevilla kazan camp nou free kick penalty complication new world cup holland germany chile paraguay eric abidal puyol keita yaya toure fc barcelona video HD how to make goal blaugrana 551 rihanna T-pain lil wayne justin bieber F50 la más ligera jugador rápido tv tox Oliver smith-Nimbus(Original mix) crush Schiller mit Mila Mar - Liebe (ATB Dub Remix) FC Barcelona vs RCD Espanyol 18.12.10 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 21.12.10 All goals and FC Barcelona vs Levante UD 02.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 05.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Deportivo 09.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Málaga CF 16.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Racing 23.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Hercules 30.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletico Madrid 06.02.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Sporting Gijón ...
http://wn.com/juventus_Vs_Benfica_1-1_All_Goals_Highlights
juventus Vs Benfica 1-1 All Goals & Hightlights Benfica Vs Juventus 1-1 All Goals & Hightlights friendly match 1/8/2012 Tags::real madrid vs barcelona 1-1 16.04.2011 xavi hernandez la pelopina skill dribble andres iniesta victor valdes david villa lionel messi sergio busquets dani alves gerard pique fontas dos santos thiago alcantara la masia ballon dor tiki taka rooney 5-0 1-0 2-0 3-0 4-0 6-0 1-1 2-1 3-1 4-1 5-2 4-2 3-3 barcelona barca real madrid camp nou pedro goal passing leo blaugrana santander sevilla passing game panathinaikos zaragoza ceuta beautiful sevilla kazan camp nou free kick penalty complication new world cup holland germany chile paraguay eric abidal puyol keita yaya toure fc barcelona video HD how to make goal blaugrana 551 rihanna T-pain lil wayne justin bieber F50 la más ligera jugador rápido tv tox Oliver smith-Nimbus(Original mix) crush Schiller mit Mila Mar - Liebe (ATB Dub Remix) FC Barcelona vs RCD Espanyol 18.12.10 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 21.12.10 All goals and FC Barcelona vs Levante UD 02.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 05.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Deportivo 09.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Málaga CF 16.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Racing 23.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Hercules 30.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletico Madrid 06.02.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Sporting Gijón ...
- published: 01 Aug 2012
- views: 58034
- author: shootlava
Lionel Messi Injury vs Benfica
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 3:49
- Updated: 17 Dec 2012
Barcelona were shaken during their draw against SL Benfica in the final match prior to the round of 16 in the Champions League. Lionel Messi suffered a bruised knee in the draw and had to be carted off. The club and manager Tito Vilanova said it does not appear to be too serious. Quotes pulled from USA Today: www.usatoday.com Watch more Soccer/Football stories: www.youtube.com Follow Rick on Twitter: twitter.com TYT Sports on Facebook: www.facebook.com
http://wn.com/Lionel_Messi_Injury_vs_Benfica
Barcelona were shaken during their draw against SL Benfica in the final match prior to the round of 16 in the Champions League. Lionel Messi suffered a bruised knee in the draw and had to be carted off. The club and manager Tito Vilanova said it does not appear to be too serious. Quotes pulled from USA Today: www.usatoday.com Watch more Soccer/Football stories: www.youtube.com Follow Rick on Twitter: twitter.com TYT Sports on Facebook: www.facebook.com
- published: 06 Dec 2012
- views: 72312
- author: tytsports
PSV - Benfica (Finale Europa Cup I, 25 mei 1988)
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 6:05
- Updated: 15 Dec 2012
25 mei 1988 is misscvhien wel de meest historische datum in de geschiedenis van PSV. In Stuttgart veroverde PSV onder leiding van Guus Hiddink de Europa Cup.
http://wn.com/PSV_Benfica_Finale_Europa_Cup_I,_25_mei_1988
25 mei 1988 is misscvhien wel de meest historische datum in de geschiedenis van PSV. In Stuttgart veroverde PSV onder leiding van Guus Hiddink de Europa Cup.
- published: 25 May 2012
- views: 5860
- author: psveindhoven
BaniYas 0-4 Benfica - All Goals
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 3:44
- Updated: 23 Oct 2012
@All rights belong to channel broadcaster.
http://wn.com/BaniYas_0-4_Benfica_All_Goals
@All rights belong to channel broadcaster.
- published: 14 Oct 2012
- views: 23246
- author: simaotvgolo13
Axel Witsel- Zenit Complete Midfielder 2012
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:24
- Updated: 15 Dec 2012
Axel Thomas Witsel (born 12 January 1989 in Liège) is a Belgian football player who plays for Zenit. His natural position is centre midfield and can also play attacking midfielder, but he came into the first team as a right-winger. ignore extras tags: Witsel Real Madrid, Witsel Anzhi, Witsel Manchester United,
http://wn.com/Axel_Witsel_Zenit_Complete_Midfielder_2012
Axel Thomas Witsel (born 12 January 1989 in Liège) is a Belgian football player who plays for Zenit. His natural position is centre midfield and can also play attacking midfielder, but he came into the first team as a right-winger. ignore extras tags: Witsel Real Madrid, Witsel Anzhi, Witsel Manchester United,
- published: 09 Aug 2012
- views: 40648
- author: Miguel Colaço
![LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD](http://web.archive.org./web/20121217233526im_/http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dKrWuhwx7l0/default.jpg "LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD")
LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 1:50
- Updated: 17 Dec 2012
LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD Zlatan Ibrahimovic Amazing Goal Sweden Vs England 4 : 2 [14.11.2012] HQ Tags::real madrid vs barcelona 1-1 16.04.2011 xavi hernandez la pelopina skill dribble andres iniesta victor valdes david villa lionel messi sergio busquets dani alves gerard pique fontas dos santos thiago alcantara la masia ballon dor tiki taka rooney 5-0 1-0 2-0 3-0 4-0 6-0 1-1 2-1 3-1 4-1 5-2 4-2 3-3 barcelona barca real madrid camp nou pedro goal passing leo blaugrana santander sevilla passing game panathinaikos zaragoza ceuta beautiful sevilla kazan camp nou free kick penalty complication new world cup holland germany chile paraguay eric abidal puyol keita yaya toure fc barcelona video HD how to make goal blaugrana 551 rihanna T-pain lil wayne justin bieber F50 la más ligera jugador rápido tv tox Oliver smith-Nimbus(Original mix) crush Schiller mit Mila Mar - Liebe (ATB Dub Remix) FC Barcelona vs RCD Espanyol 18.12.10 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 21.12.10 All goals and FC Barcelona vs Levante UD 02.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 05.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Deportivo 09.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Málaga CF 16.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Racing 23.01.11 All goals and highlights FC ...
http://wn.com/LIONEL_MESSI_TRAGEDY_INJURY_Barcelona_vs_Benfica_0_0_051212_HD
LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD LIONEL MESSI TRAGEDY INJURY Barcelona vs Benfica 0 - 0 [05.12.12] HD Zlatan Ibrahimovic Amazing Goal Sweden Vs England 4 : 2 [14.11.2012] HQ Tags::real madrid vs barcelona 1-1 16.04.2011 xavi hernandez la pelopina skill dribble andres iniesta victor valdes david villa lionel messi sergio busquets dani alves gerard pique fontas dos santos thiago alcantara la masia ballon dor tiki taka rooney 5-0 1-0 2-0 3-0 4-0 6-0 1-1 2-1 3-1 4-1 5-2 4-2 3-3 barcelona barca real madrid camp nou pedro goal passing leo blaugrana santander sevilla passing game panathinaikos zaragoza ceuta beautiful sevilla kazan camp nou free kick penalty complication new world cup holland germany chile paraguay eric abidal puyol keita yaya toure fc barcelona video HD how to make goal blaugrana 551 rihanna T-pain lil wayne justin bieber F50 la más ligera jugador rápido tv tox Oliver smith-Nimbus(Original mix) crush Schiller mit Mila Mar - Liebe (ATB Dub Remix) FC Barcelona vs RCD Espanyol 18.12.10 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 21.12.10 All goals and FC Barcelona vs Levante UD 02.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 05.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Deportivo 09.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Málaga CF 16.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Racing 23.01.11 All goals and highlights FC ...
- published: 06 Dec 2012
- views: 10927
- author: A2worksOfficial
Full HD benfica vs celtic 2-1 goals & highlights 21/11/2012
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 3:46
- Updated: 05 Dec 2012
Full HD benfica vs celtic 2-1 goals & highlights 21/11/2012 celtic vs benfica 2-1
http://wn.com/Full_HD_benfica_vs_celtic_2-1_goals_highlights_21_11_2012
Full HD benfica vs celtic 2-1 goals & highlights 21/11/2012 celtic vs benfica 2-1
- published: 20 Nov 2012
- views: 6998
- author: themontakeem
Benfica 3 - 2 Interviú Madrid Final UEFA Futsal 2010
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 5:59
- Updated: 28 Nov 2012
http://wn.com/Benfica_3_2_Interviú_Madrid_Final_UEFA_Futsal_2010
Benfica vs Real Madrid 5-2 - All Goals - 27/07/2012
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 1:52
- Updated: 16 Dec 2012
Benfica Lisbon vs Real Madrid - 27/07/2012 Watch More Pre-Season Highlights @ www.EuroSoccerWeb.com
http://wn.com/Benfica_vs_Real_Madrid_5-2_All_Goals_27_07_2012
Benfica Lisbon vs Real Madrid - 27/07/2012 Watch More Pre-Season Highlights @ www.EuroSoccerWeb.com
- published: 27 Jul 2012
- views: 9187
- author: WTFvids90
Javi Garcia deixa SL Benfica após 3 temporadas
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:14
- Updated: 13 Dec 2012
http://wn.com/Javi_Garcia_deixa_SL_Benfica_após_3_temporadas
You'll Never Walk Alone - Celtic vs Benfica
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 1:53
- Updated: 24 Oct 2012
Celtic fans singing You'll Never Walk Alone before the Benfica game on 19/09/2012, dedicated to the Hillsborough victims.
http://wn.com/You'll_Never_Walk_Alone_Celtic_vs_Benfica
Celtic fans singing You'll Never Walk Alone before the Benfica game on 19/09/2012, dedicated to the Hillsborough victims.
- published: 19 Sep 2012
- views: 37577
- author: jamescfc1
UEFA Cup 2003/2004 - Inter vs. Benfica (4:3) Highlights
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 25:03
- Updated: 24 Nov 2012
UEFA Cup, Stagione 2003/2004, 1/8 di Finale, 25 Marzo 2004. Partita di ritorno, Stadio Giuseppe Meazza - Inter vs. Benfica (4:3). Marcatori: 36' e 67' Nuno Gomes, 46' e 70' Martins, 60' Recoba, 64' Vieri, 77' Tiago. Inter: 1 Toldo, 2 Cordoba, 4 J. Zanetti, 8 Lamouchi, 15 Adani, 18 Kily Gonzalez, 19 Karagounis (72' 31 Brechet), 22 Okan (59' 20 Recoba), 24 Gamarra, 30 Martins (86' 25 Almeyda), 32 Vieri. Allenatore: Alberto Zaccheroni. Inter: 1 Moreira, 2 Armando, 4 Luisao, 6 Petit (86' 11 Geovanni), 10 Zahovic (65' 25 Sokota), 20 Simao, 21 Nuno Gomes, 23 Miguel, 30 Tiago, 33 Ricardo Rocha, 77 João Pereira (65' 37 Manuel Fernades) Allenatore. Jose Antonio Camacho. Arbitro: Alain Sars. Ammoniti: Tiago, Okan, Joao Pereira, Cordoba, Armando, Recoba.
http://wn.com/UEFA_Cup_2003_2004_Inter_vs_Benfica_43_Highlights
UEFA Cup, Stagione 2003/2004, 1/8 di Finale, 25 Marzo 2004. Partita di ritorno, Stadio Giuseppe Meazza - Inter vs. Benfica (4:3). Marcatori: 36' e 67' Nuno Gomes, 46' e 70' Martins, 60' Recoba, 64' Vieri, 77' Tiago. Inter: 1 Toldo, 2 Cordoba, 4 J. Zanetti, 8 Lamouchi, 15 Adani, 18 Kily Gonzalez, 19 Karagounis (72' 31 Brechet), 22 Okan (59' 20 Recoba), 24 Gamarra, 30 Martins (86' 25 Almeyda), 32 Vieri. Allenatore: Alberto Zaccheroni. Inter: 1 Moreira, 2 Armando, 4 Luisao, 6 Petit (86' 11 Geovanni), 10 Zahovic (65' 25 Sokota), 20 Simao, 21 Nuno Gomes, 23 Miguel, 30 Tiago, 33 Ricardo Rocha, 77 João Pereira (65' 37 Manuel Fernades) Allenatore. Jose Antonio Camacho. Arbitro: Alain Sars. Ammoniti: Tiago, Okan, Joao Pereira, Cordoba, Armando, Recoba.
- published: 06 Aug 2012
- views: 2308
- author: TheGreatOneInterist
Referee knocked out by Luisao x Fortuna Dusseldorf x Benfica x bodycheck foul referee 2012
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 2:37
- Updated: 15 Dec 2012
Fortuna Dusseldorf x Benfica x bodycheck x referee TAGS: Hamburg, Match cancelled - Fortuna Düsseldorf vs. Benfica Lissabon Luisao beat down the Referee Referee knocked out by Luisao Fortuna Düsseldorf - Benfica Lissabon Der Schiedsrichter wird von Luisao zu Boden geschlagen Unglaublich! Spielabbruch. Match cancelled Schiedsrichter wird von Fußballspieler umgeschlagen. Luisao schlägt Schiedsrichter nieder Footballplayer beat down the Referee. During the friendly match between Fortuna Düsseldorf and Benfica Lissabon the Football player Luisao beat down the Referee. Während dem Freundschaftsspiel zwischen Fortuna Düsseldorf und Benfica Lissabon wurde der Schiedsrichter von dem Fußballspieler Luisao von Benfica niedergeschlagen Spielabbruch Referee knocked out by Luisao Player beat Referee Match cancelled
http://wn.com/Referee_knocked_out_by_Luisao_x_Fortuna_Dusseldorf_x_Benfica_x_bodycheck_foul_referee_2012
Fortuna Dusseldorf x Benfica x bodycheck x referee TAGS: Hamburg, Match cancelled - Fortuna Düsseldorf vs. Benfica Lissabon Luisao beat down the Referee Referee knocked out by Luisao Fortuna Düsseldorf - Benfica Lissabon Der Schiedsrichter wird von Luisao zu Boden geschlagen Unglaublich! Spielabbruch. Match cancelled Schiedsrichter wird von Fußballspieler umgeschlagen. Luisao schlägt Schiedsrichter nieder Footballplayer beat down the Referee. During the friendly match between Fortuna Düsseldorf and Benfica Lissabon the Football player Luisao beat down the Referee. Während dem Freundschaftsspiel zwischen Fortuna Düsseldorf und Benfica Lissabon wurde der Schiedsrichter von dem Fußballspieler Luisao von Benfica niedergeschlagen Spielabbruch Referee knocked out by Luisao Player beat Referee Match cancelled
- published: 11 Aug 2012
- views: 251956
- author: KaymakTV
UEFA Cup 1992-93: Juventus x Benfica
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 104:56
- Updated: 11 Dec 2012
15 março 1993 Lugar Turín - Italia (Stadio delle Alpi) Arbitro P. Mikkelsen Juventus: Peruzzi, Carrera, Júlio César, Kohler, Torricelli, Dino Baggio, Conte, Marocchi, Möller (Ravanellli), Roberto Baggio, Vialli. Tec: G. Trapattoni. Benfica: Silvino (Neno), Hélder, Mozer, Madeira (Rui Águas), Veloso, Paulo Sousa, Schwarz, Rui Costa, João Pinto, Yuran, Vitor Paneira. Tec: T. Ivic
http://wn.com/UEFA_Cup_1992-93_Juventus_x_Benfica
15 março 1993 Lugar Turín - Italia (Stadio delle Alpi) Arbitro P. Mikkelsen Juventus: Peruzzi, Carrera, Júlio César, Kohler, Torricelli, Dino Baggio, Conte, Marocchi, Möller (Ravanellli), Roberto Baggio, Vialli. Tec: G. Trapattoni. Benfica: Silvino (Neno), Hélder, Mozer, Madeira (Rui Águas), Veloso, Paulo Sousa, Schwarz, Rui Costa, João Pinto, Yuran, Vitor Paneira. Tec: T. Ivic
- published: 15 Jul 2012
- views: 1814
- author: junior481
photo: AP / Jason DeCrow
16 Dec 2012
NEWTOWN, Conn. — The gunman in the Connecticut shooting rampage committed suicide as first responders closed in, the governor said Sunday, raising the specter that Adam Lanza had planned an even more gruesome massacre and was stopped short. Lanza blasted his way into the building and used a high-power rifle to kill 20 children and six adults, including the principal who tried to stop him, authorities said ... Among the questions ... H ... The Rev....(size: 8.8Kb)
photo: AP / Guang Niu, Pool
16 Dec 2012
Retired Col. Gen. Viktor Yesin yesterday wrapped up a visit to the United States during which he met with officials at the Pentagon, State Department as well as members of Congress warning about underestimating China’s tactical nuclear weapons buildup ... Yesin warns that U.S. and Western arms specialists are dramatically underestimating China’s nuclear arsenal ... Somewhere between the higher and lower estimates is no doubt the truth ... Mr ... Mr ... ....(size: 4.0Kb)
photo: AP / David Goldman
17 Dec 2012
WASHINGTON—Democrats say meaningful action in the wake of last week's elementary school shooting must include a ban on military-style assault weapons and a look at how the nation deals with individuals suffering from serious mental illness. Several Democratic lawmakers and Independent Sen ... Gun control was a hot topic in the early 1990s, when Congress enacted a 10-year ban on assault weapons ... He added ... Sen ... Rep ... ———....(size: 5.3Kb)
photo: AP / Newtown Bee, Shannon Hicks
15 Dec 2012
Newtown, Conn. Twenty schoolchildren were slaughtered by a heavily armed gunman who opened fire at a suburban elementary school in Connecticut on Friday, ultimately killing at least 27 people including himself in the one of the worst mass shootings in US history ... Authorities found 18 children and seven adults, including the gunman, dead at the school, and two children were pronounced dead later after being taken to a hospital ... Reuters ....(size: 7.5Kb)
photo: AP / Jessica Hill
14 Dec 2012
More than two dozen people, mostly elementary school children, were shot and killed at a Newtown, Conn., elementary school this morning, federal and state sources tell ABC News. The massacre involved two gunmen at a Connecticut school this morning, prompting the town of Newtown to lock down all of its schools and draw SWAT teams to the school, authorities said today. State Police confirm that one shooter is dead ... at ABCNews.com ... ....(size: 4.5Kb)
Sky Sports
17 Dec 2012
noodls
17 Dec 2012
(Source. JSC FC Shakhtar Donetsk). The voting to determine the best Brazilian footballer in Europe kicked off on the 1st of December. The best player will be awarded the Samba d'Or prize ... Among 30 nominees for the award, three Shakhtar players Alex Teixeira, Fernandinho and Willian have been officially enlisted this time ... Adriano (Barcelona);. Alan (Sporting Braga); ... Cleiton Xavier (Metalist); ... Lima (Benfica);....(size: 3.2Kb)
The Guardian
17 Dec 2012
• Celtic await Thursday's Champions League draw in Nyon. • Wanyama and Hooper score as Celtic see off St Mirren. Scottish Premier League. Celtic 2 St Mirren 0 . Celtic midfielder Beram Kayal says the Scottish champions are hungry to prove themselves in Europe. Photograph ... Celtic 2 St Mirren 0 ... The Scottish champions have earned widespread plaudits for their progression from a group which included Barcelona, Benfica and Spartak Moscow....(size: 5.3Kb)
noodls
17 Dec 2012
(Source. FCB - Fútbol Club Barcelona). The defender notes that only Barça can lose La Liga at this point seeing that Atlético are 9 points adrift of the top (and Real Madrid are 13 points back). Piqué says that he feels great physically and that he believes he's back to full form. Piqué on Barça TV. PHOTO. MIGUEL RUIZ - FCB ... Lastly, Piqué talked about the various opinions emanating from Madrid on Leo Messi's knock against Benfica....(size: 3.4Kb)
DNA India
17 Dec 2012
As impressive as they looked, it was not Manchester City slicing through Newcastle United in the first half that indicated they are capable of winning back-to-back Premier League titles. It was the way they stubbornly held on to their lead after the interval ... The could have buckled, but did not ... Having scored his second goal since a pounds 15.8?million summer move from Benfica, Garcia said ... ....(size: 3.7Kb)
Irish Times
17 Dec 2012
Compiled by Mary Hannigan. Trapattoni speaks in tongues - ish . It was back in May 2008 that Giovanni Trapattoni took the Ireland squad to the Algarve for a week-long training camp, his first chance to work with the players since his appointment as manager. Having spent time in Portugal as manager of Benfica, there was plenty of local media interest in his presence, and more than a few requests for interviews ... Ish. Alone he stands ... ....(size: 5.7Kb)
The Guardian
17 Dec 2012
After the World Club Cup Chelsea's morale is low, and if their manager feels the season is still alive it is up to him to prove it. Rafael Benítez, Chelsea's interim manager, gained an improved understanding of his players, if not a trophy, during his visit to Japan. Photograph ... David Luiz is indeed the player of quality Chelsea believed they had bought from Benfica almost two years ago, and could operate in midfield if required ... ....(size: 8.8Kb)
photo: WN / Maria Niklova
17 Dec 2012
LONDON. London defied Britain's wettest summer for 100 years, potential transport and security chaos and a depressed economy to stage a marvellous 2012 Olympics during a magical year for British sport ... Open ... FINEST HOUR ... ARMSTRONG SCANDAL ... Iniesta's Barcelona team mate Lionel Messi was carried off in a stretcher with what appeared to be a serious knee injury after colliding with Benfica goalkeeper in a Champions League group match on Dec....(size: 10.5Kb)
The Guardian
16 Dec 2012
- -. SPAIN ... - - - -. ENGLAND ... - - - -. GERMANY ... - - - -. FRANCE ... - - - - ... Paraguay striker Oscar Cardozo scored an hat-trick for Benfica in their 4-1 home thrashing of Maritimo that pulled them clear at the top of the Portuguese Premier League, three points above second-placed Porto who have a game in hand. Cardozo became Benfica's first foreign striker to reach the 100 league goals mark as the Lisbon club grabbed 32 points from 12 matches....(size: 14.4Kb)
noodls
16 Dec 2012
(Source. Chelsea Football Club Ltd). At the highly impressionable age of 15, David Luiz watched from Brazil as his country lifted the World Cup. The venue for the game where they beat Germany was the Yokohama International Stadium ... Standing in his way is the team he supported as a boy ... One time I did an interview, I think in my first year at Benfica, and this guy gave me a question - which coach do you like? - and I said Scolari ... (noodl....(size: 5.4Kb)
BBC News
16 Dec 2012
Within a fortnight, Scott Brown has re-emerged as a key part of Celtic's progression on three competitive fronts. Of the last 360 minutes of Champions League, Scottish Premier League and Scottish Cup football, the Hoops' captain has played 354. It seems a long time since the 2-1 defeat to Benfica, when we lip-read Brown tell the referee - in no uncertain terms - that his game was up after an hour in the Estadio da Luz ... Done ... ....(size: 7.9Kb)
The Daily Telegraph
16 Dec 2012
As impressive as they looked, it was not Manchester City slicing through Newcastle United in the first half that indicated they are capable of winning back-to-back Premier League titles. It was the way they stubbornly held on to their lead after the interval. High flier ... REUTERS. By Luke Edwards, St James' Park. 11.00PM GMT 16 Dec 2012 ... Having scored his second goal since a £15.8 million summer move from Benfica, Garcia said....(size: 12.2Kb)
noodls
15 Dec 2012
(Source. Chelsea Football Club Ltd) PRE-MATCH BRIEFING. FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP FINAL. CHELSEA STATS ... Feb 21 Napoli (Round of 16 a) L 1-3 Mar 14 Napoli (Round of 16 h) W 4-1 Mar 27 Benfica (Quarter-final a) W 1-0 Apr 4 Benfica (Quarter-final h) W 2-1 Apr 18 Barcelona (Semi-final h) W 1-0 Apr 24 Barcelona (Semi-final a) D 2-2 May 19 Bayern Munich (Final, Munich) D 1-1* * won 4-3 on penalties after extra time. We lined up 4-2-3-1 ... Scorer ... Cech....(size: 17.4Kb)
"Benfica" redirects here. For other uses, see Benfica (disambiguation).
 |
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| 200px | |||
| Full name | Sport Lisboa e Benfica | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | Benfiquistas Águias (Eagles) Encarnados (Reds) Glorioso (Glorious One) |
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| Founded | February 28, 1904 (1904-02-28) (108 years ago) as Grupo Sport Lisboa |
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| Ground | Estádio da Luz, Lisbon (Capacity: 65,647[1]) |
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| President | Luís Filipe Vieira | ||
| Manager | Jorge Jesus | ||
| League | Primeira Liga | ||
| 2011–12 | Primeira Liga, 2nd | ||
| Website | Club home page | ||
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|||
 Current season |
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Sport Lisboa e Benfica (Portuguese pronunciation: [spɔɾ liʒˈboɐ i bɐ̃ȷ̃ˈfikɐ]; Euronext: SLBEN), commonly known as simply Benfica or SLB, is a Portuguese multi-sports club based in Lisbon, Portugal. Although Benfica successfully competes in a number of different sports, it is mostly known for its football team.
Founded on 28 February 1904, at a meeting in Farmácia Franco involving 24 men led by Cosme Damião, Sport Lisboa e Benfica (originally known as Grupo Sport Lisboa) is one of the Três Grandes (Big Three) football clubs in Portugal, with Sporting and FC Porto being the other two clubs, Benfica's biggest rivals. Benfica has more than 14 million fans and holds the Guinness World Record for the football club in the world with most members.[2] It is the most popular Portuguese club in the world and its supporters are often called Benfiquistas.
Benfica is the most successful football club in Portuguese competitions, with 67 titles, and the second most successful Portuguese club overall, with 70 titles.
Benfica holds the record of 32 Portuguese Liga titles, the record of 24 Portuguese Cups (record of 4 consecutively), another record of 4 Portuguese League Cups (totally and consecutively), 3 Championships of Portugal and 4 Portuguese SuperCups. Benfica has the distinction of being the first in the history of the Portuguese Liga to have completed an entire 30 game season unbeaten (in 1972–73) and the only to do it twice (in 1977–78). In the season of 1972–73, Benfica won 23 matches in a row and set the Portuguese league and European leagues record for most consecutive victories. Benfica finished the season with 58 points in 30 games, the most ever obtained (96.7% efficiency), and achieved the largest difference ever between champion and runners-up (18 points), in a 2 points per win system.
Benfica was one of the founding members of the Primeira Liga in 1933 and it has never been relegated from the Primeira Divisão (First Division) of Portuguese football.
Internationally, Benfica was the first and only Portuguese club to win a Latin Cup and 2 European Cups consecutively: the 1960–61 and the 1961-62 European Cups. In addition, Benfica were runners-up in the 1961 and 1962 Intercontinental Cups, in the 1962–63, 1964–65, 1967–68, 1987–88 and 1989-1990 European Cups, and in the 1982–83 UEFA Cup; holding the national record of 8 European finals played.
As a sports club, Benfica currently has departments for futsal, roller hockey, basketball, handball, volleyball, athletics, triathlon, rugby, table tennis, judo, among others. Due to the success and popularity of its football, Benfica has built the biggest fan base among the Três Grandes in Portugal. Benfica also has one of the biggest fan bases in the world, with many supporters outside of Portugal in countries like Andorra, Angola, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Cape Verde, Croatia, France, Germany, Guinea-Bissau, United Kingdom, Japan, Luxembourg, Macau, Mexico, Switzerland, Netherlands and United States.
As one of the biggest clubs in the world, Sport Lisboa e Benfica has its own television channel called Benfica TV and is involved in social intervention with Benfica Foundation (Fundação Benfica in Portuguese).[3]
History[link]
The foundation and first years (1904–1910)[link]
| Active departments of S.L. Benfica |
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| Football | Futsal | Basketball |
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| Roller hockey | Handball | Volleyball |
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| Rugby union | Cycling | Athletics |
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| Beach soccer | Judo | Triathlon |
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| Swimming | Boxing | Gymnastics |
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| Table tennis | Archery | Golf |
On February 28, 1904, a meeting of young people from the Belém neighborhood of Lisbon and former students from the Real Casa Pia de Lisboa took place at the Farmácia Franco (Franco Pharmacy), located on Rua de Belém in the southwest part of Lisbon, with the goal of forming a new football club that would be called Grupo Sport Lisboa. There were a total of 24 people who attended the meeting, including the co-founder and future soul of the football club, Cosme Damião. During the meeting, José Rosa Rodrigues was appointed as the club's first president, along with Daniel Brito as secretary and Manuel Gourlade as treasurer.
The first game was played in January 1905. Despite important football victories in the first few years, the club suffered due to poor operating conditions. As a result, in 1907, several players from the first team joined the then more prosperous Sporting, located across the city.
In 1908, Grupo Sport Lisboa acquired, by mutual agreement, the Sport Clube de Benfica, a club founded in 1906 as Grupo Sport Benfica and later changed its name to Sport Clube de Benfica. Despite the merger of the two football clubs, Grupo Sport Lisboa and Sport Clube de Benfica continued their respective club operations. For Grupo Sport Lisboa, they maintained the football team, the red and white shirt colors, the eagle as the symbol, the "E Pluribus Unum" as the motto, and the logo. For Sport Clube de Benfica, they maintained the football field, the main directors, and the club's house.
Under the mutual agreement, both Sport Clube de Benfica and Grupo Sport Lisboa determined that the foundation date of the newly formed club should coincide with the foundation date of Grupo Sport Lisboa, February 28, 1904, given that it was the most recognized club (of the two) in the merger and it was already quite popular in Lisbon due to its football merits. (It is interesting to note that Sport Lisboa e Benfica is the only club of the "Big Three" that has never changed its foundation date.) With regard to the new club's logo, a bicycle wheel was added to the Grupo Sport Lisboa's original logo, which represented the most important sport of Sport Clube de Benfica. As for the new club's name, Benfica from Sport Clube de Benfica was added to the Sport Lisboa of Grupo Sport Lisboa to form Sport Lisboa e Benfica, which remains the formal full name of Benfica today. As for other notes, the club moved from the Belém area of Lisbon to the present-day Benfica area, which is a neighborhood located in the northern part of the city. Furthermore, the two entities of the new club had simultaneous associates, which helped to stabilize operations and later increased the success of the merger.
In October, 1908, a month after the agreement, the club won the first game ever against Sporting. Then, in the 1909–10 season, Benfica ended Carcavelos Club's reign (for the last three years) as Lisbon Champions. In addition, that season was considered a "golden one", as the club won all three regional championships in Portuguese competition, thus establishing a record.
An early age of achievements (1910–1921)[link]
Between 1905 and 1922, the club won 11 Lisbon regional titles in football.
Meanwhile, club’s popularity increased outside of Lisbon's city borders. Several affiliate clubs were created, mainly in the Algarve.
The 1913–14 season was very successful, as the club was the first to win the regional Lisbon championships in all the four categories.
The first international matches were played with some relevant results: in 1913, the club won their first international football trophy, named Torneio Três Cidades (Three Cities Tournament).
The rink hockey department was created in 1917. In 1919, the club organized the first ever football game played at night in Portugal.
It was not until the 1920s that the club became more known as Benfica. A falling out within the club regarding some football players led to several members leaving the club and founding Clube de Futebol Os Belenenses, which is now Lisbon's third largest football club. This is regarded as the second major crisis within the club.
Football crisis and cycling dominance (1922–1930)[link]
The national football competitions only began in the 1920s. The impact of the defection of players to Clube de Futebol Os Belenenses was made worse by further losses due to the creation of Casa Pia Atlético Clube in Lisbon. This exodus of players left Sport Lisboa e Benfica struggling in the following years and the club would only win two regional titles until 1930.
Fortunately for Benfica, cycling picked up the slack and became an important source of victories. Spearheading the team was Alfredo Luís Piedade, considered to be one of the greatest names in Portuguese cycling.
In 1925, the club inaugurated the Amoreiras Stadium. The departments of field hockey, rugby, and basketball were created in this decade; only the first mentioned doesn’t have official activities today.
From the time 1921–1922, one begins to realize thePortugal. Championship The representative Madeira only enter in the competition next season. In 1927–1928 the club only adds to their participation. Was on the edge of Benfica win the quarter-final, with the 3-1 win until the last minute of the game, but ending up losing 3-4 in the extended discount.
The first national football titles (1930s)[link]
The 1930s were a much kinder decade to Benfica. The club's football team started the decade by winning two national championships (for the first time) in 1930 and 1931 and one regional championship.
After losing the first national championship, Benfica won the next three championships in a row (1935–36, 1936–37, and 1937–38), and their first Portuguese Cup, in 1939–40.
Cycling continued to be the key sport within the club. The duels between Benfica's José Maria Nicolau and Sporting's Alfredo Trinidade on the road throughout the country enthralled many fans and were a critical factor for the ascendance of popularity of not only Benfica but also Sporting. José Maria Nicolau is regarded as one of Benfica's greatest ever cyclist and won two Volta a Portugal's titles in 1931 and 1934.
The 1940s[link]
The 1940s saw the domination by Benfica and Sporting in the country's football championship to an extent never seen before. Between 1941 and 1950, the two clubs finished first and second in every championship except for the 1945–46 season when Benfica finished second to Os Belenenses. During this period, Benfica and Sporting each won four titles. By now, football was clearly the club's most important sport.
The 1950s[link]
Benfica's first major international football success happened in 1950 when they won the Latin Cup by defeating Bordeaux in the final. The Latin Cup was then seen as one of Europe's most prestigious European Cups in a time when UEFA (which hadn't been formed yet) had yet to launch its unified European Cups.
Another highlight came in 1954 when Benfica moved into the famous Estádio da Luz. It initially had capacity for 40,000 spectators, but this was gradually expanded due to club's growing success and fan base.
Benfica won three championships during the 1950s and were runner-ups three times. They also gathered six Portuguese Cups, and their accomplishments included a series of four consecutive victories between 1948 and 1953. The Portuguese Cup was not held in 1950 due to the Latin Cup being organized in Portugal.
In addition to all these successes, Benfica was able to end the decade with the foundations in place enabling the club to enter the 1960s with one of the best teams in Europe.
The golden era (1960–1970)[link]
Benfica was the first team to break Real Madrid's dominance in the early European Champions' Cup. winning two European Cups in a row against FC Barcelona (1961) and Real Madrid (1962).
During the 1960s, Benfica would reach another three European Champions' Cup finals, but never managed to win a European trophy again. They lost in the final against Milan (1963), Internazionale (1965), and Manchester United (1968).
In 1968, Benfica was considered the best European team by France Football, despite its defeat in the European Champions Clubs' Cup. Many of its successes in the 1960s were achieved with all-time football great Eusébio playing for the Lisbon side. In fact, the 1960s were the best period of Benfica history, in which the club won an astonishing eight championships (1960, '61, '63, '64, '65, '67, '68, and '69), three Portuguese Cups (1961, '64, and '69), and two European Champions Cup (1961 and '62).
The silver era (1970–1994)[link]
During the 1970s, the team faded slightly from the European scene, but remained the main force inside Portuguese football, winning six championships (1971, '72, '73, '75, '76, and '77) and two Portuguese Cups (1970 and '72). Jimmy Hagan led the club to three successive Portuguese championships, and once to the national cup between 1970 and 1973. Benfica also attracted Europe-wide attention when the team reached the semi-finals of the European Cup of Champions, where the team was only narrowly defeated 1–0 on aggregate by the legendary Ajax side of that era.
In 1972–73, Benfica became the first club in Portugal to last a whole season without defeat and won 28 matches — 23 consecutively — out of 30, and drew two. In that year, Eusébio also became Europe's top scorer with 40 goals, in what was his penultimate season as a Benfica player. The team scored 101 goals, breaking 100 only for the second time in their history.
The club had some problems in the late 1970s, early 1980s, but managed to stand up to its standards again, this time under the guidance of Sven-Göran Eriksson. In two years (1983 and 1984) the club won the Portuguese championship, one Portuguese Cup, and reached the final of the UEFA Cup in 1983 against Anderlecht.
Following the completion of improvements to the football stadium, the board of Benfica decided to open the third level of the Estádio da Luz, which transformed it into one of the biggest in Europe, with a standing room capacity of 120,000. In 1987, Benfica won another double (championship and Portuguese Cup), an achievement done for the ninth time in their history.
During the period from 1988 to 1994, Benfica made a huge financial investment in an effort to win another European cup, but the club failed to meet its expectations. While Benfica reached the European cup final in 1988 and 1990, it lost in the final against PSV and Milan, respectively. Domestically, Benfica won three more championships (1989, '91, and '94) and one Portuguese Cup (1993).
The dark years (1994–2003)[link]
Financial trouble began to undermine the club due to rampant spending and a questionable signing policy which allowed for squads composed of well over 30 players. Consequently, the period from 1994 through 2003 was arguably the darkest in the history of Benfica. During this time, Benfica only won one Portuguese Cup in season 1995–96 and finished in positions, such as sixth in 2000–01 and fourth in 2001–02. The debts were accumulating, and nearly every year saw the hire of a new Benfica coach.
The rebuilding years[link]
In 2004, the club regained some of its sporting prowess, with a new president and the manager José Antonio Camacho, winning the first title in eight years (the Portuguese Cup, won against José Mourinho's FC Porto in the final), and in 2004–05, the first national championship in 11 years, this time with Giovanni Trapattoni as coach. That year was also marked by the death of the Hungarian player Miklós Fehér during a match against Vitória de Guimarães at the Estádio D. Afonso Henriques, shocking scenes of paramedics trying to revive the player on the pitch to no avail will live on in the memory of many and certainly of the players that were there that day. The wake was held at the Estádio D. Afonso Henriques and both the President Luís Filipe Vieira and the captain Nuno Gomes went to Hungary for the players burial.
In 2004–05, Benfica won the Portuguese SuperCup for the fourth time. In the 2005–06 Champions League, Benfica managed to reach the quarter-finals, defeating Manchester United 2–1 in the decisive group stage encounter, and then overcoming the 2005 European champions Liverpool 3–0 on aggregate. However, Benfica lost in the Quarter Finals to the eventual Champions League winner Barcelona by an aggregate of 2–0, both goals coming during the second leg in Camp Nou. In the 2006–07 season, Benfica found themselves again facing Manchester United in a decisive Champions League group match in which the winner would advance. However, this time it was Manchester United who prevailed, gaining revenge in a 3–1 win.
On August 20, 2007, José Antonio Camacho returned to Benfica on a two-year contract, following the sacking of Fernando Santos after only one match in the league (a tie against the recently promoted Leixões), at time when Benfica was facing a vital Champions League qualifying game against Copenhagen. Benfica granted a place in the Champions League after defeating Copenhagen for 1–0, but eventually exited the competition at the group stage. They then parachuted to the UEFA Cup where they were defeated by Spanish debutants, Getafe. Camacho resigned a few months later, in March. Benfica failed to gain a top three finish in the 2007–08 season, placing the team in the UEFA Cup for the upcoming season.
On May 22, 2008, former Valencia manager Quique Sánchez Flores was appointed as the club's new manager for the new season.
In 2008, Benfica launched its own TV channel called Benfica TV.
In 2009, Benfica won the second edition of the Portuguese League Cup defeating their cross-town rival Sporting, under the guidance of Quique Sánchez Flores.
Jorge Jesus Era to the Present (2009–present)[link]
On June 8, 2009, manager Quique Sánchez Flores resigned as coach after agreeing to a friendly contractual termination; he was replaced by former Sporting de Braga manager Jorge Jesus on June 17.
On August 2, in their ninth friendly, Benfica won the Guimarães Tournament against Vitória de Guimarães. The next week, Benfica won the Eusébio Cup on penalty kicks against Milan which kept the Eusébio Cup in Lisbon for the first time.
In the 2009-2010 season, Benfica also had the highest average home attendance with 46,737; their highest mark was 58,659 against FC Porto.[citation needed] In March 2010, a 3–0 win against arch-rivals FC Porto allowed Benfica to take the 2010 Portuguese League Cup.
Benfica were paired with Liverpool in the quarter-finals of the 2009–10 UEFA Europa League. In Lisbon at the Estádio da Luz, Benfica defeated the English club 2–1 but were defeated after a 4–1 loss in Liverpool.
On May 9, 2010, Benfica won their final match against Rio Ave and became the Champion of the 2009–2010 season. Óscar Cardozo finished top scorer of the season with 26 goals. They ended the season five points ahead of runners-up SC Braga, securing direct entry into the Group Stage of the 2010-11 UEFA Champions League.
In the next season after being eliminated from UEFA Champions League, Benfica progressed to their first European semi-final in 18 years. They were beaten on the away goals rule after a 2-2 result, against SC Braga. They won the League Cup final against Paços de Ferreira clinching their third consecutive. On the Portuguese league they finished second.
In 2011-2012, Benfica reached the quarter-finals of UEFA Champions League being eliminated by eventual winners Chelsea FC, won their fourth Taça da Liga consecutively, and finished in second place of Portuguese league qualifying directly to the 2012–13 UEFA Champions League. Óscar Cardozo was again the top scorer of Primeira Liga with 20 goals.
Club statistics and records[link]
Main article: List of S.L. Benfica records and statistics
Eusébio presently holds records for number of total appearances for Benfica with 614 games played.
Benfica's all time top goalscorer is Eusébio, who scored 638 goals for the club in 614 games. José Águas is in second place with 438 goals in 514 games for the club followed by Nené, who has scored 359 goals in 575 games.
The club jointly holds the record of having gone a whole season without losing a game, during the 1972–73 season and has a European winning streak record of 29 games between 1971–72 and 1972–73.
Symbols[link]
The emblem is composed of an eagle, a shield in the club colours of red and white, and the acronym SLB for "Sport Lisboa e Benfica" over a football, all superimposed over a bicycle wheel, which was taken from the Grupo Sport Benfica emblem. The club motto is "E Pluribus Unum," Latin for "Out of many, one".
Stadium[link]
Main article: Estádio da Luz
Benfica plays at the "Estádio da Luz" (Portuguese pronunciation: [(ɨ)ˈʃtadiu dɐ ˈluʃ])translation for the stadium name would be "Stadium of Luz".
It is officially named the Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica, and is a football stadium in Lisbon, Portugal, the home of Benfica. It is called "a Catedral" (the Cathedral) by the Benfica fans.
The term Luz refers, historically, to the parish of the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Luz (Church of Our Lady of the Light). The Stadium of Light in Sunderland, England was named after the miners lamp that was used to "light" the way in the colliery on which the ground is now built on top of, and is officially the only "Stadium of Light"
In Portuguese, the word Luz means "Light". Although the stadium was named in honor of the parish, the words da Luz in the parish name translates to "of the Light". Hence, the name is not mistranslated and is correctly translated.
The stadium hosted several matches in the 2004 European Football Championship, including the final match. The previous Benfica stadium (also called "Estádio da Luz" and one of the largest stadiums in the world with 120,000 seats) was demolished and the new one was built for the tournament with a capacity of 65,647.
On the 20th of March 2012 "Estádio da Luz" was designated the venue for the European Champions League final in 2014.
Training centre and youth academy[link]
Main article: Futebol Campus
Benfica owns state-of-the-art training facilities in Seixal. The complex is called the Caixa Futebol Campus, named after sponsor Caixa Geral de Depósitos, a leading Portuguese bank. It is here that the professional team trains daily and also is the home of all Benfica's youth squads.
History of team honours[link]
Main article: List of S.L. Benfica honours
See also: List of S.L. Benfica seasons
From 1922 to 1938, the Portuguese championship was carried out as a knock-out competition. In 1934, an experimental and unofficial League Championship (Campeonato da I Liga) was introduced. This tournament was the precursor of the Portuguese League which started with the 1938–39 season. The previous format continued in renamed form as the cup competition.
International finals campaigns[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica in Europe
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1950 Latin Cup
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1957 Latin Cup
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Official national titles[link]
- Primeira Liga (Primeira Divisão, Primeira Liga, Campeonato Nacional):
- Winners (32) (Record): 1935–36, 1936–37, 1937–38, 1941–42, 1942–43, 1944–45, 1949–50, 1954–55, 1956–57, 1959–60, 1960–61, 1962–63, 1963–64, 1964–65, 1966–67, 1967–68, 1968–69, 1970–71, 1971–72, 1972–73, 1974–75, 1975–76, 1976–77, 1980–81, 1982–83, 1983–84, 1986–87, 1988–89, 1990–91, 1993–94, 2004–05, 2009–10
- Portuguese Cup (Taça de Portugal):
- Winners (24) (Record): 1939–40, 1942–43, 1943–44, 1948–49, 1950–51, 1951–52, 1952–53, 1954–55, 1956–57, 1958–59, 1961–62, 1963–64, 1968–69, 1969–70, 1971–72, 1979–80, 1980–81, 1982–83, 1984–85, 1985–86, 1986–87, 1992–93, 1995–96, 2003–04
- League Cup (Taça da Liga):
- Portuguese SuperCup (Supertaça de Portugal):
- Winners (4): 1980, 1985, 1989, 2005
- Campeonato de Portugal (Campeonato de Portugal):
- Winners (3): 1929–30, 1930–31, 1934–35
Regional (Lisbon) titles[link]
- Cup of Honour (Taça de Honra):
- Winners (18): 1919–20, 1921–22, 1962–63, 1964–65, 1966–67, 1967–68, 1968–69, 1971–72, 1972–73, 1973–74, 1974–75, 1977–78, 1978–79, 1979–80, 1981–82, 1983–84, 1985–86, 1987–88
- Lisbon Championship (Campeonato de Lisboa):
- Winners (10): 1909–10, 1911–12, 1912–13, 1913–14, 1915–16, 1916–17, 1917–18, 1919–20, 1932–33, 1939–40
- Runners-up (20): 1906–07, 1908–09, 1910–11, 1914–15, 1918–19, 1921–22, 1922–23, 1927–28, 1928–29, 1929–30, 1934–35, 1935–36, 1936–37, 1937–38, 1940–41, 1941–42, 1942–43, 1943–44, 1944–45, 1946–47
- Lisbon Championship – 2nd Category/Reserves:
- Winners (42): 1909/10, 1910/11, 1912/13, 1913/14, 1914/15, 1915/16, 1917/18, 1918/19, 1919/20, 1920/21, 1921/22, 1926/27, 1928/29, 1930/31, 1935/36, 1938/39, 1940/41, 1942/43, 1944/45, 1948/49, 1949/50, 1952/53, 1953/54, 1956/57, 1957/58, 1962/63, 1963/64, 1964/65, 1965/66, 1969/70, 1970/71, 1971/72, 1974/75, 1975/76, 1976/77, 1977/78, 1978/79, 1979/80, 1980/81, 1981/82, 1986/87, 1992/93
Unofficial national titles[link]
- Império Cup (Taça do Império):
- Winners (3): 1912, 1913, 1918
Note: It shouldn't be translated as Empire Cup as it refers to Império LC, a Lisbon club from the early 20th century.
- Titles of the National Olympic Games (Títulos dos Jogos Olímpicos Nacionais):
- Winners (3): 1910, 1912, 1913
- Taça de Ribeiro dos Reis (Ribeiro dos Reis Cup):
- Winners (3): 1963–64, 1965–66, 1970–71
International titles[link]
- Latin Cup:
- Winners (1): 1950
Unofficial International titles[link]
- Iberian Cup:
- Winners (1): 1983
Friendly Competitions[link]
- Three Cities Tournament (Torneio Três Cidades):
- Winners (1): 1913
- Four Cities Tournament (Torneio Quatro Cidades):
- Winners (1): 1916
- Páscoa Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1925
- Ramon de Carranza Trophy:
- Winners (2): 1963, 1971
- Badajoz Trophy:
- Winners (2): 1969, 1973
- Salamanca Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1973
- Vinho do Porto Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1973
- Los Angeles Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1975
- Belo Horizonte Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1975
- Braga Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1977
- Paris Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1979
- FC Schalke 04 Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1980
- Toronto Tournament:
- Winners (4): 1981, 1982, 1983, 1987
- Lisboa Trophy:
- Winners (3): 1984, 1986, 1987
- Lisboa International Trophy:
- Winners (2): 1983, 1985
- Maputo Tournament:
- Winners (1): 1986
- Teresa Herrera Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1987
- Vigo Trophy:
- Winners (1): 1990
- Cidade de Guimarães Trophy:
- Winners (3): 2008, 2009, 2010
- Amsterdam Tournament:
- Winners (1): 2009
- Eusébio Cup:
- Winners (2): 2009, 2011
- Pedro Pauleta Trophy:
- Winners (1): 2009
- CNE Cup:
- Winners (1): 2009
- Albufeira Summer Cup:
- Winners (1): 2010
Award winners[link]
- Ballon d'Or
The following players have won the Ballon d'Or while playing for Benfica:
- European Golden Boot
The following players have won the European Golden Shoe while playing for Benfica:
- FIFA World Cup Golden Boot
The following players have won the FIFA World Cup Golden Boot while playing for Benfica:
- Best European Goalkeeper
The following players have won the Best European Goalkeeper while playing for Benfica:
Michel Preud'homme – 1994
- UEFA European Football Championship
The following players have won the UEFA European Football Championship while playing for Benfica:
- Copa América
The following players have won the Copa América while playing for Benfica:
Aldair – 1989- Ricardo Gomes – 1989
- Valdo – 1989
- Luisão – 2004
Maxi Pereira – 2011
- FIFA Confederations Cup
The following players have won the FIFA Confederations Cup while playing for Benfica:
- Summer Olympics Football Tournament
The following players have won the Summer Olympics Football Tournament while playing for Benfica:
Players[link]
Note: Flags indicate national team as has been defined under FIFA eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
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Retired numbers[link]
29 – 
Miklós Fehér, Forward (2002-04) - posthumous honour of respect due to death on field while playing.
As of the 2004–05 season, president Luís Filipe Vieira said no player will wear the number 29 shirt in Benfica, since the club decided to retire the shirt out of respect for Miklós Fehér due to his tragic death.
Benfica B[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica B
Out on loan[link]
Note: Flags indicate national team as has been defined under FIFA eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
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Benfica Juniors[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica Juniors
Notable former players[link]
Officially recognized[link]
This is a list of footballers, including the years in which they were part of the squad, who have been recognized as prime and best performers in their positions playing for Benfica, according to their official website:[4]
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Goalkeepers
Left fullbacks
Right fullbacks
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Central defenders
Left midfielders
Right midfielders
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Central midfielders
Forwards
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Coaches[link]
Current coaching staff[link]
| Position | Staff |
|---|---|
| Head Coach |  Jorge Jesus |
| Assistant Coach | Minervino Pietra |
| Assistant Coach | Miguel Quaresma |
| Assistant Coach | Raul José |
| Goalkeeper Coach | Hugo Oliveira |
| Physical Fitness Coach | Mário Monteiro |
| Technical Observer | Marco Pedroso |
| Scout | Rui Águas |
| Scout | José Sampaio |
Last updated: 27 June 2011
Source: ZeroZeroFootball
Former coaches[link]
Main article: List of S.L. Benfica managers
Other sports[link]
Archery[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (archery)
The archery section has won the Portuguese national championship 9 times and the Portuguese Cup 1 time. In addition to these national titles, they have won the Tornoi Européen de Nîmes FITA once. It is one of the most successful Portuguese archery clubs.
Athletics[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (athletics)
Athletics is a sport with a great tradition in Benfica's history. Nowadays, Olympic champion and national recordist Nelson Évora in triple jump is among Benfica's athletics biggest names. By the number of regional, national and international titles, it is the most successful sport of the club.
Basketball[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (basketball)
Benfica is a top basketball team in Portugal. One of its most memorable moments was when Benfica's basketball team won a European Cup clash against Italian giants Buckler Bologna, beating the Italians 102–90, on December 1, 1993 at Pavilhão da Luz in Lisbon. Benfica also managed to win against other top European basketball teams such as Real Madrid (in Spain), Union Olimpija, Joventut Badalona (in Spain), Panathinaikos B.C., Pau-Orthez (in France) and CSKA Moscow. Despite basketball not being nearly as popular with the population as football, Benfica also enjoys a major rivalry with FC Porto's basketball team and it usually leads to arguments between the fans, players and staff. Benfica has won 23 Portuguese championships, 18 Portuguese Cups, 9 Portuguese SuperCups and 6 League Cups.[5] Benfica is the Portuguese Champion, after defeating FC Porto in Dragão Caixa (53-56).
Beach soccer[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (beach soccer)
In recent years, the club started to develop a team capable of winning major titles, in part due to the growth the sport has witnessed in Portugal and world-wide.
Billiards[link]
Benfica has a long and rich tradition on Billiards. The new board of the section was elected in April 2007.
Boxing[link]
The Boxing section was reintroduced in 2008 and won the national championship 40 years after its last championship.
The 72,5 kg kickboxing-world champion, Bruno Carvalho, is one of Benfica's athletes.
Cycling[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (cycling team)
Cycling was the second modality established within the club, and along with football, is one of only two sports referenced in the club logo. The sport was in activity from 1906 to 1941, 1947 to 1978, 1999 to 2000, and once again from 2007 to 2008. Benfica last won the Volta a Portugal in 1999, with Spanish cyclist David Plaza capturing the leader's yellow jersey. Historically, the club has had great national successes in cycling.
Futsal[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (futsal)
Benfica has a professional futsal team since 2002. The club has won 5 Portuguese Championships, 5 Portuguese Cups, 5 Portuguese SuperCups and 1 UEFA Futsal Cup. Benfica also reached the final of 2003/04 UEFA Futsal Cup.
Benfica won all Portuguese competitions for 3 times, in 2002/03, 2004/05 and 2006/07 seasons.
Handball[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (handball)
Benfica's handball honours include 7 Championships, 4 Portuguese Cups, 3 SuperCups and 2 League Cups. The club gave up of the sport between 1997 and 2004. Until the 1992-93 season, the club's variant of seven achieved the 100th trophy mark; 30 of them were conquered by seniors' teams. On 28 January 2007, Benfica ended a period of fifteen seasons without any trophy after conquering the 2005-06 League Cup. In 2007-08 season, Benfica conquered its 7th Championship after eighteen years.
Golf[link]
Benfica is one of Portugal's biggest Golf clubs. It organizes around 20 tournaments each year.
Gymnastics[link]
The club has a gymnastics department, with the following activities: Aerobics, Acrobatic, Aerominis, Ballet, Ballroom dance, Boxing, Dance, Gymnastics of maintenance, Hapkido, Haidong Gumdo, Hip Hop, Kempo, Kickboxing, Krav Maga, Muay-Thai, "Os Madrugadores", PlayGym, Rhythmic gymnastics, Silhouettes, Taekwondo, Trampoline, Yoga, Youth Gymnastics.
Every year, the club organises the sarau Gimnáguia, known as one of the biggest and most important gymnastics event in Portugal, with the participation of several clubs. The event celebrated in 2007 its twenty-fifth anniversary.
Judo[link]
The European champion in the women's under-52 kg category, Telma Monteiro, has joined Benfica. The section was fully established on January 21, 2008, when the club inaugurated their first ever Tatami mat.
Paintball[link]
Benfica has achieved a big importance in Portuguese Paintball in the last years, the S.L. Benfica Paintball team, created in 2008 won the National Portuguese Gold (Top Portuguese Division) Paintball Championship 3 times in a row; 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Portuguese Cup in 2008. At international level also won the SPL Millennium European Paintball Series in 2009 and 3 SPL Millennium European Paintball Series Challenges; the World Cup of Toulouse in 2008, the European Masters Cup of Bitburg in 2008 and the Campaign Cup of London in 2009. Hugo Domingues of S.L. Benfica Paintball team is one of the best world Paintballers. In 2010 the S.L. Benfica Paintball team participate in the top Millennium European Paintball Series Competition, the CPL (Champions Profissional Paintball League).
Rink hockey[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (rink hockey)
Benfica has practiced this sport without interruption for longer than any other club in the world. The club has won many domestic competitions: record of 21 Portuguese Championships, record of 13 Portuguese Cups and 6 Portuguese SuperCups. Benfica has won three European competitions: 2 CERS Cup and 1 Continental Cup. Internationally it has won 1 Nations Cup. The team is currently playing in the First Division.
Rugby union[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (rugby union)
Benfica have won many Portuguese championships in rugby, with Académica de Coimbra, C.D.U.P., Direito and Belenenses being other powerful competitors. Benfica have also won the Iberian Cup. Benfica is the oldest Portuguese club with a rugby section. In the 2008 season, the men's senior team ended in the 4th position in the national championship, while the women's section was the national champion for the second consecutive year.
Sport fishing[link]
The sport fishing section has had its best season in 2008, with Benfica being 2nd in the Portuguese championship.
The Casa do Benfica no Porto (House of SL Benfica in Porto) won the FIPS-MER World Championship Shore Angling Clubs in 2006 and a Silver Medal in 2010.
Swimming[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (swimming)
S.L. Benfica's swimming department is among the best in Portugal. Benfica's swimmer Alexandre Yokochi is considered the best Portuguese swimmer of all-time for achieving remarkable results at international level. In the 1980s, Benfica achieved relevant results, both in national and international levels. In 2007, the club won several medals in different competitions, at youth and seniors levels. Benfica has a men's and women's department.
Triathlon[link]
The world champion Vanessa Fernandes in women's triathlon is currently the most notable athlete of this department.
Table tennis[link]
The club has a table tennis department, with a men's and women's section. Benfica dominated this sport at the national level for a long period of time, with several titles won.
Volleyball[link]
Main article: S.L. Benfica (volleyball)
Benfica has achieved importance in Portuguese volleyball in the last years after investing in hiring a winning team. The club won 3 Portuguese Leagues, 24 Portuguese Cups and 3 Portuguese SuperCups.
See also[link]
References[link]
- ^ http://www.worldstadiums.com/europe/countries/portugal.shtml
- ^ http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records-2000/most-widely-supported-football-club
- ^ http://fundacao.slbenfica.pt/en-us/home.aspx
- ^ http://www.slbenfica.pt/pt-pt/slb/hist%C3%B3ria/grandesjogadores.aspx
- ^ http://www.slbenfica.pt/HomeBasquetebol/Palmar%C3%A9s.aspx
External links[link]
 |
Wikimedia Commons has media related to: SL Benfica |
- Official websites
- Official website (Portuguese) (English)
- S.L. Benfica at UEFA
- S.L. Benfica at Primeira Liga (Portuguese)
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http://wn.com/S.L._Benfica
Related pages:
http://it.wn.com/Sport Lisboa e Benfica
http://cs.wn.com/Sport Lisboa e Benfica
http://id.wn.com/SL Benfica
http://es.wn.com/Sport Lisboa e Benfica
http://ru.wn.com/Бенфика (футбольный клуб, Лиссабон)
http://pt.wn.com/Sport Lisboa e Benfica
http://pl.wn.com/SL Benfica
http://fr.wn.com/Benfica Lisbonne
http://de.wn.com/Benfica Lissabon
http://nl.wn.com/SL Benfica (voetbalclub)
This page contains text from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S.L._Benfica
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
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| Personal information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Ola John | ||
| Date of birth | (1992-05-19) 19 May 1992 (age 20) | ||
| Place of birth | Zwedru, Liberia | ||
| Height | 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) | ||
| Playing position | Winger | ||
| Club information | |||
| Current club | Benfica | ||
| Number | 24 | ||
| Youth career | |||
| 1998–2002 | DES Nijverdal | ||
| 2002–2010 | Twente | ||
| Senior career* | |||
| Years | Team | Apps† | (Gls)† |
| 2010–2012 | Twente | 46 | (9) |
| 2012– | Benfica | 0 | (0) |
| National team‡ | |||
| 2009 | Netherlands U-17 | 3 | (1) |
| 2010–2011 | Netherlands U-19 | 9 | (3) |
| 2011– | Netherlands U-21 | 3 | (0) |
| * Senior club appearances and goals counted for the domestic league only and correct as of 13 May 2012. † Appearances (Goals). |
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Ola John (born 19 May 1992) is a Liberian-born Dutch footballer who plays as a winger for Sport Lisboa e Benfica[1], in the Portuguese Liga.
Contents |
Personal life[link]
As a 2-year-old Ola fled with his mother and brothers from Liberia to the Netherlands. His father was killed during the bloody First Liberian Civil War. He did not return to the African continent until the Youth World Championship in Nigeria in 2009. Like his brothers Collins and Paddy, Ola joined the youth academy of FC Twente.[2]
FC Twente[link]
The 2011-12 season was the big breaktrough for Ola at Twente, as he got a starting place from Co Adriaanse at the start of the season, and did not lose that even with competition for the left forward position, as Nacer Chadli returned from injury. He also topped the UEFA Europa League group stage assist rankings with six assists.[3][4] In Twente's home match in the Europa League against Odense BK on 3 November, John provided all three assists in a 3-2 win.[5] John was influential in the Eredivisie campaign as well, netting two goals in a 6-2 victory over FC Utrecht on 4 December 2011.[6]
SL Benfica[link]
On 24 May 2012, John signed for Portuguese giants Benfica for an initial €9M eventually rising to €12M due to clauses, on a five year deal that includes a a €45 million release clause.[7][8]
International career[link]
In February 2012, Ola John was called up for the first time by Bert van Marwijk to represent the senior Netherlands football team for the game against England at Wembley. [9] On 7 May 2012, he was named in the provisional list of 36 players for the Euro 2012 tournament, one of nine uncapped players to be chosen by Netherlands manager Bert van Marwijk as part of the preliminary squad.[10]
References[link]
- ^ Ola John no Benfica
- ^ Interview Ola John, website Ons Oranje.nl (8 oktober 2009)
- ^ http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/139547/ola-john?cc=5901
- ^ John coming on strong at Twente By Berend Scholten, uefa.com (28 november 2011)
- ^ http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2012/matches/round=2000272/match=2007368/postmatch/report/index.html
- ^ http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=321790&cc=5901
- ^ http://www.goal.com/en-my/news/3956/transfer-zone/2012/05/25/3124648/official-benfica-sign-ola-john-from-twente
- ^ http://www.voetbalprimeur.nl/site/nieuws/237609/Benfica_heeft_FC_Twente_talent_John_beet.html
- ^ http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/feb/28/holland-england-wembley
- ^ http://espnfc.com/en/news/1071286/league/UEFA.EURO/season/2012/team/449
External links[link]
- (Dutch) Voetbal International
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| Persondata | |
|---|---|
| Name | John, Ola |
| Alternative names | |
| Short description | Dutch footballer |
| Date of birth | 19 May 1992 |
| Place of birth | Zwedru, Liberia |
| Date of death | |
| Place of death | |
  |
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 Messi playing for Barcelona |
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| Personal information | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Lionel Andrés Messi[1] | |||||||||||
| Date of birth | (1987-06-24) 24 June 1987 (age 25)[1] | |||||||||||
| Place of birth | Rosario, Argentina[1] | |||||||||||
| Height | 1.69 m (5 ft 7 in)[1] | |||||||||||
| Playing position | Forward | |||||||||||
| Club information | ||||||||||||
| Current club | Barcelona | |||||||||||
| Number | 10 | |||||||||||
| Youth career | ||||||||||||
| 1995–2000 | Newell's Old Boys | |||||||||||
| 2000–2003 | Barcelona | |||||||||||
| Senior career* | ||||||||||||
| Years | Team | Apps† | (Gls)† | |||||||||
| 2003–2004 | Barcelona C | 8 | (5) | |||||||||
| 2004–2005 | Barcelona B | 22 | (6) | |||||||||
| 2004– | Barcelona | 214 | (169) | |||||||||
| National team‡ | ||||||||||||
| 2005 | Argentina U20 | 16 | (11) | |||||||||
| 2008 | Argentina U23 | 5 | (2) | |||||||||
| 2005– | Argentina | 68 | (22) | |||||||||
|
Honours
|
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| * Senior club appearances and goals counted for the domestic league only and correct as of 22:30, 13 May 2012 (UTC). † Appearances (Goals). |
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Lionel Andrés Messi (Spanish pronunciation: [ljoˈnel anˈdɾes ˈmesi], born 24 June 1987) is an Argentine footballer who plays in La Liga for FC Barcelona and is the captain of the Argentina national team, mainly as a forward.
By the age of 21, Messi had received Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year nominations. The following year in 2009 he won both the Ballon d'Or[2] and FIFA World Player of the Year, and won the inaugural FIFA Ballon d'Or in 2010 and 2011.[3] He also won the 2010–11 UEFA Best Player in Europe Award. Messi is the fourth football player to win three Ballons d'Or, after Johan Cruyff, Michel Platini and Marco van Basten and the second player to win three consecutive Ballons d'Or, after Michel Platini. His playing style and small stature have drawn comparisons to Diego Maradona, who himself declared Messi as his "successor".[4][5]
Messi has won five La Liga titles and three Champions League titles. In 2012, Messi made UEFA Champions League history by becoming the first player to score five goals in one match, in a 7–1 win against Bayer Leverkusen.[6] With two goals in the next round against A.C. Milan, he matched José Altafini's record of 14 goals in a single UEFA Champions League/European Cup season.[7] He also became the first player to top-score in four successive European Champion Clubs' Cup campaigns.[8][9] He set the world record for most goals scored in a season during the 2011–12 season, with 73 goals.[10]
Messi was the top scorer of the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship with six goals. In 2006, he became the youngest Argentine to play in the FIFA World Cup and he won a runners-up medal at the Copa América tournament the following year. In 2008, he won his first international honour, an Olympic gold medal, with the Argentina Olympic football team.
Contents |
Early life[link]
Messi was born in Rosario, Santa Fe Province, to parents Jorge Horacio Messi, a factory steel worker, and Celia María Cuccittini, a part-time cleaner.[11][12][13][14] His paternal family originates from the Italian city of Ancona, from which his ancestor, Angelo Messi, emigrated to Argentina in 1883.[15][16] He has two older brothers, Rodrigo and Matías, and a sister, María Sol.[17] At the age of five, Messi started playing football for Grandoli, a local club coached by his father Jorge.[18] In 1995, Messi switched to Newell's Old Boys who were based in his home city Rosario.[18] At the age of 11, he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency.[19] Local powerhouse River Plate showed interest in Messi's progress, but did not have enough money to pay for treatment for his condition, which cost $900 a month.[14] Carles Rexach, the sporting director of FC Barcelona, had been made aware of his talent as Messi had relatives in Lleida, Catalonia, and Messi and his father were able to arrange a trial with the team.[14] Rexach, with no other paper at hand, offered Messi a contract written on a paper napkin.[20][21] Barcelona offered to pay for Messi's medical bills if he was willing to move to Spain. Messi and his father moved to Barcelona where Messi enrolled in the club's youth academy.[18][21]
Club career[link]
Barcelona[link]
Messi played in Barcelona's junior Infantil B and Cadete B & A teams from 2000 to 2003 (scoring 37 goals in 30 matches in Cadete A). Season 2003–04 saw him on a record[22] five different teams: He started one match in Juvenil B (one goal) and got promoted to Juvenil A (14 matches, 21 goals). Later he debuted for FC Barcelona C team (Tercera División) on 29 November 2003 and for FC Barcelona B (Segunda División B) on 6 March 2004. He played for both teams during the season (eight matches, five goals and five games, zero goals, respectively).[23][24][25] Even before these two debuts, Messi made his official debut for the first-team on 16 November 2003 aged 16 years and 145 days, in a friendly match against Porto.[26][27]
Less than a year after his start, Frank Rijkaard gave him his league debut against RCD Espanyol on 16 October 2004 (at 17 years and 114 days), becoming the third-youngest player ever to play for Barcelona and youngest club player who played in La Liga, which would be broken by Bojan Krkić in September 2007. When he scored his first senior goal for the club against Albacete Balompié on 1 May 2005, Messi was 17 years, ten months and seven days old, becoming the youngest to ever score in a La Liga game for Barcelona[28] until it was again broken by Bojan Krkić in 2007, scoring from a Messi assist.[29] Messi said about his ex-coach Rijkaard: "I'll never forget the fact that he launched my career, that he had confidence in me while I was only sixteen or seventeen."[30] During the season, Messi played also in Barcelona B (Segunda División B) scoring 6 goals in 17 matches.
2005–06 season[link]
On 16 September, for the second time in three months, Barcelona announced an update to Messi's contract; this time it was improved to pay him as a first team member and extended until June 2014.[18] Messi obtained Spanish citizenship on 26 September 2005[31] and was finally able to make his debut in the season's Spanish First Division. Messi's first home outing in the Champions League came on 27 September against Italian club Udinese.[26] Fans at Barcelona's stadium, the Camp Nou, gave Messi a standing ovation upon his substitution, as his composure on the ball and passing combinations with Ronaldinho had paid dividends for Barcelona.[32]
Messi netted six goals in 17 league appearances, and scored one Champions League goal in six. His season ended prematurely on 7 March 2006, however, when he suffered a muscle tear in his right thigh during the second leg of the second round Champions League tie against Chelsea.[33] Rijkaard's Barcelona ended the season as champions of Spain and Europe.[34][35]
2006–07 season[link]
In the 2006–07 season, Messi established himself as a regular first team player, scoring 14 times in 26 matches.[36] On 12 November, in the game against Real Zaragoza, Messi suffered a broken metatarsal, ruling him out for three months.[37][38] On 11 March, El Clásico saw Messi in top form, scoring a hat-trick to earn 10-man Barcelona a 3–3 draw, equalising three times, with the final equaliser coming in injury time.[39] In doing so he became the first player since Iván Zamorano (for Real Madrid in the 1994–95 season) to score a hat-trick in El Clásico.[40] Messi is also the youngest player ever to have scored in this fixture. Towards the end of the season he began finding the net more often; 11 of his 14 league goals for the season came from the last 13 games.[41]
Messi also proved the "new Maradona" tag was not all hype, by nearly replicating Maradona's most famous goals in the space of the single season.[42] On 18 April 2007, he scored two goals during a Copa del Rey semi-final against Getafe CF, one of which was very similar to Maradona's famous goal against England at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, known as the Goal of the Century.[43] The world's sports press drew comparisons with Maradona, and the Spanish press labelled Messi as "Messidona".[44] He ran about the same distance, 62 metres (203 ft), beat the same number of players (six, including the goalkeeper), scored from a very similar position, and ran towards the corner flag just as Maradona did in Mexico 21 years before.[42] In a press conference after the game, Messi's team-mate Deco said: "It was the best goal I have ever seen in my life."[45] Against RCD Espanyol Messi also scored a goal which was remarkably similar to Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal against England in the World Cup quarter-finals. Messi launched himself at the ball and connected with his hand to guide the ball past the goalkeeper Carlos Kameni.[46] Despite protests by Espanyol players and replays showing it was clear handball, the goal stood.[46]
2007–08 season[link]
On 27 February, Messi played in his 100th official match for Barcelona against Valencia.[47]
Messi was nominated for a FIFPro World XI Player Award under the category of Forward.[48] A poll conducted in the online edition of the Spanish newspaper Marca had him as the best player in the world with 77 percent of the vote.[49] Columnists from Barcelona-based newspapers El Mundo Deportivo and Sport stated that the Ballon d'Or should be given to Messi, a view supported by Franz Beckenbauer.[50] Football personalities such as Francesco Totti have declared that they consider Messi to be one of the current best footballers in the world.[51]
Messi was sidelined for six weeks following an injury on 4 March when he suffered a muscle tear in his left thigh during a Champions League match against Celtic. It was the fourth time in three seasons that Messi suffered this type of injury.[52] When the season was over Messi managed to score 16 goals and assisted 13 times in all competition.
2008–09 season[link]
Upon Ronaldinho's departure from the club, Messi inherited his number 10 jersey.[53] During this season he placed second in the 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year awards with 678 points.
Messi scored his first hat-trick of 2009 in a Copa del Rey tie against Atlético Madrid which Barcelona won 3–1.[54] Messi scored another important double on 1 February 2009, coming on as a second half substitute to help Barcelona defeat Racing Santander 1–2 after being 1–0 down. The second of the two strikes was Barcelona's 5000th league goal.[55] On 8 April 2009, he scored twice against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, setting a personal record of eight goals in the competition.[56]
As Barcelona's season was drawing to a close, Messi scored twice (his 35th and 36th goals in all competitions) to cap a 6–2 win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu[57] in what was Real's heaviest defeat since 1930.[58] He won his first Copa del Rey on 13 May, scoring one goal and assisting another two, in a 4–1 victory over Athletic Bilbao.[59] He helped his team win the double by winning La Liga. On 27 May he helped Barcelona win the Champions League by scoring a second goal in the 70th minute giving Barcelona a two goal lead; he also became the top scorer in the Champions League, the youngest in the tournament's history, with nine goals.[60] Messi also won the UEFA Club Forward of the Year: and the UEFA Club Footballer of the Year rounding off a spectacular year in Europe.[61] This victory meant Barcelona had won the Copa del Rey, La Liga and Champions League in the one season,[62] and was the first time a Spanish club had ever won the treble.[63]
2009–10 season[link]
—Diego Maradona, on the consequences if Messi won the 2010 World Cup[64]
After winning the 2009 UEFA Super Cup, Barcelona manager Josep Guardiola asserted that Messi was probably the best player he had ever seen.[65] On 18 September, Messi signed a new contract with Barcelona, running until 2016 and with a buy-out clause of €250 million included, making Messi, along with Zlatan Ibrahimović, the highest paid players in La Liga, with earnings of around €9.5 million yearly.[66][67]
Messi was named winner of the 2009 Ballon d'Or on 1 December 2009, beating runner-up Cristiano Ronaldo by largest ever margin of 473 to 233.[68][69][70]
On 19 December, Messi scored the winner in the final of the 2009 Club World Cup against Estudiantes in Abu Dhabi, giving the club their sixth title of the year.[71] Two days later, he was given the FIFA World Player of the Year award,[72] beating Cristiano Ronaldo, Xavi, Kaká and Andrés Iniesta to the award. This was the first time he had won the award, and he became the first Argentinian to ever receive this honour.[73] On 10 January 2010, Messi scored his first hat-trick in 2010 and his first hat-trick of the season against CD Tenerife in the 0–5 victory,[74] and on 17 January he scored his 100th goal for the club in the 4–0 victory over Sevilla.[75]
Messi scored a hat-trick against Valencia CF in a 3–0 home win,[76] and finally he scored another hat-trick against Zaragoza in a 4–2 away win,[77] becoming the first Barcelona player to score back-to-back hat-tricks in La Liga.[78] He played his 200th official match for Barcelona against Osasuna on 24 March 2010.[79]
"Once he's on the run, Messi is unstoppable. He's the only player who can change direction at such a pace."
"He is the best player in the world by some distance. He's (like) a PlayStation. He can take advantage of every mistake we make."
On 6 April 2010, for the first time in Messi's career he scored four goals in a single match, netting the lot in a 4–1 home win over Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-final second leg.[82][83] This also saw him overtake Rivaldo as Barcelona's all time greatest scorer in the competition.[84] In the final league match of the season against Valladolid, he scored two goals in the second half to tie Ronaldo's club record of 34 goals in a single league season, set in 1996–97,[85][86] and to finish four goals behind the all-time record held by Telmo Zarra.[87] He was named La Liga player of the year for the second year in a row on 3 June 2010.[88]
2010–11 season[link]
On 21 August 2010, Messi scored a hat-trick in his first start of the season in a 4–0 victory over Sevilla FC in the Supercopa de España, helping Barcelona secure their first trophy of the season after a 1–3 first leg loss.[89]
On 19 September 2010, Messi suffered an ankle injury due to an ill-advised tackle by Atlético Madrid defender Tomáš Ujfaluši in the 92nd minute of their Round 3 match at the Vicente Calderón Stadium. At first sight it was feared that Messi suffered a broken ankle that could have kept the star player away from the pitch for a minimum of six months, but MRI performed the next day in Barcelona showed he suffered a sprain in the internal and external ligaments of his right ankle.[90] Team-mate David Villa stated "the tackle on Messi was brutal" after watching the video of the play and also added that he believed the Atlético defender "didn't go into the tackle to hurt".[91] The incident caused widespread media attention and brought up the debate of equality in protecting all players in the game.
Against Almería Messi scored his second hat-trick of the season in an impressive 8–0 away win, the second of which was his 100th La Liga goal.[92]
Messi won the 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or, beating his Barcelona teammates Xavi and Iniesta.[93] Messi had been nominated for the awards for the fourth consecutive year.[94] On 5 February, Barcelona broke the record for most consecutive league wins with 16 victories after they defeated Atlético Madrid 3–0 at the Camp Nou.[95] Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to ensure the victory for his side and after the match he stated, "it's an honor to be able to pass a record set by a great like Di Stéfano" and "if the record has been around for so long is because it's very complicated to achieve and we have reached it by defeating a very difficult team who's going through a bad situation, which makes it even more difficult."[96]
After failing to score for a month he scored a brace against UD Almería; the second goal was his 47th of the season, equalling his club record return of the previous season.[97] He surpassed his record on 12 April 2011 by scoring the winner against Shakhtar Donetsk in a UEFA Champions League game, which put him in the record book as all time top scorer in a single season for Barcelona.[98] He scored his eighth goal on El Clásico on a 1–1 tie at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. On 23 April, Messi scored his 50th goal of the season against CA Osasuna in a 2–0 home victory which he came on as a substitute in the 60th minute.[99] He finished the season by winning La Liga and scoring 31 goals.
On 20 April, Barcelona were defeated by arch-rivals Real Madrid in the 2011 Copa del Rey Final. Messi set up a goal for Pedro, which was however ruled offside. Cristiano Ronaldo scored the only goal of the match in extra time. Messi was however the joint top-scorer of the tournament along with Cristiano Ronaldo, with 7 goals.[100] [101][101]
In the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals, he gave a memorable performance, scoring twice against Real Madrid in a 2–0 win, the second goal (a dribble past several players) being acclaimed as one of the best ever at that stage of the competition.[102][103] At the Champions League Final at Wembley, Messi scored the eventual game-clinching goal to give Barcelona their third title in six years and fourth overall.[104] This was also Messi's 12th goal in the Champions League that season, which allowed him to tie Ruud Van Nistelrooy's record of 12 goals in a single European Cup season, after it was re-established as the UEFA Champions League, in 1992.[101] The overall record of goals scored in a single European Cup Season, is José Altafini's record of 14 goals, which Messi did however equal in the following season.[101] Messi finished the 2010-11 season with 53 goals in all competitions.
2011–12 season[link]
Messi started the season by lifting the Spanish Supercup with Barcelona, scoring three goals and providing two assists in a 5–4 aggregate win against Real Madrid.[105] His vital interventions continued in the next official match played against Porto when he scored again following a weak back pass from Fredy Guarín before setting up Cesc Fàbregas to give Barcelona a 2–0 victory and the UEFA Super Cup,[106] then the only official competition that remained for him to score in.[107]
After scoring his first goal of an eventual hat-trick in an 8–0 rout against Osasuna, Messi produced a special celebration for Soufian, a 10-year-old Moroccan boy with Laurin Sandrow syndrome, a rare medical condition that can eventually lead to the loss of the lower extremities. Whilst Messi usually points to the sky after scoring a goal, Messi slapped his thighs as a dedication to Soufian.[108]
In August, Messi became the second highest goalscorer surpassing László Kubala on 194 goals, being behind only to César Rodríguez on 232 goals in all official competitions.[109]
On 28 September, Messi scored his first two Champions League goals of the season against BATE Borisov,[110] becoming Barcelona's second highest goalscorer in its history, tying László Kubala, at 194 goals in all official competitions.[111] He surpassed that record when he scored two goals against Racing Santander.[112] He became second in Barcelona's La Liga goalscorers list with 132 goals, one more than Kubala.[113] He scored his 200th Barcelona goal and two more as part of a hat-trick in his next game against Viktoria Plzeň in the Champions League.[114]
Messi scored a brace in the Club World Cup Final against Santos and was recognized as the man of the match and also awarded the Golden Ball for his performance during the tournament.[115]
Messi won the 2011 UEFA Best Player in Europe Award, beating his Barcelona team-mate Xavi Hernández and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi won the 2011 FIFA Ballon d'Or, again beating his team-mate Xavi and Cristiano Ronaldo. By winning the FIFA Ballon d'Or again, Messi become the fourth player to win three Ballon d'Ors, after Johan Cruyff, Michel Platini and Marco Van Basten and the second player to win three consecutive Ballon d'Ors, after Michel Platini (although two of his Ballon d'Ors are FIFA Ballon d'Ors, which he won consecutively).
On 19 February 2012, Messi, on his 200th La Liga appearance, scored four goals against Valencia in a 5–1 win.[116] On 7 March, Messi became the first player to score five goals in an UEFA Champions League match since the tournament's re-establishment in 1992, helping the defending champions Barcelona win 7–1 against Bayer Leverkusen.[117]
On 20 March, Messi scored three goals against Granada, making him FC Barcelona's leading goalscorer in official competitions, surpassing club legend César Rodríguez, who had previously held the record with 232.[118]
On 3 April, Messi scored two goals from penalty kicks against Milan in the second leg of the Champions League Quarter-final, allowing him to surpass his personal record, joint with Ruud van Nistelrooy, of 12 goals in a single UEFA Champions League season. These goals allowed him to tie José Altafini's record of 14 goals in a single European Cup season in the 1962–63 season, before the tournament's re-establishment as the UEFA Champions League in 1992.[101] Barcelona were knocked out in the semi-finals to eventual winners Chelsea.
On 11 April, Messi scored his 61th goal against Getafe, surpassing Isidro Langara's record of 60 goals in 1933–34, and became the best goalscorer in history in one season in Spain.[citation needed]
On 2 May, Messi scored a hat-trick against Málaga surpassing Gerd Müller's record (67 goals in 1972-73) with 68 goals, and thus becoming the best goalscorer in history in one season in Europe.[119] It was the 21st multi-goal game of the season for Messi and his seventh La Liga hat-trick.[120] He then scored four goals on 5 May against Espanyol to take his tally to an unprecedented 72 goals, in the process becoming only the second player to pass 70 goals in a first division season since Archie Stark of Bethlehem Steel in the American Soccer League in 1924–25.[121]
On 25 May, he scored again in the 2012 Copa del Rey Final, helping Barcelona win their 26th Spanish Cup title, and increasing his seasonal goalscoring record to an unmatched 73 goals in all competitions.[122] [123] This was also Guardiola's last match as Barcelona's manager, and the Cup win marked Messi's second Copa del Rey title, after losing the final the year before, as well as his 14th Barcelona trophy during Guardiola's 4 seasons at the club. Although Barcelona failed to win their 4th consecutive Liga title under Guardiola, finishing runners up to arch-rivals Real Madrid, Messi finished the 2011–12 season as the top goalscorer in La Liga for a second time, with a Liga record of 50 goals. He also ended the season as the UEFA Champions' League Top Scorer for a fourth consecutive time, with 14 goals.[124]
International career[link]
Often referred to as an Argentinian-Spanish player, this crossover was brought into sharp focus when in 2004, Lionel was offered the chance to play for the Spanish national U-20 team. He declined the offer given his Argentinian heritage, and was given the opportunity to play for Argentina's U-20 team in a friendly match against Paraguay in June 2004.[125] In 2005 he was part of a team that finished 3rd in 2005 South American Youth Championship in Colombia. He won the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship in the Netherlands with the team and won the Golden Ball and the Golden Shoe,[126] scoring in the last four of Argentina's matches and netting a total of six for the tournament.
He made his full international debut on 17 August 2005 against Hungary at the age of 18. He was substituted on during the 63rd minute, but was sent off on the 65th minute because the referee, Markus Merk, claimed that Messi had allegedly elbowed defender Vilmos Vanczák, who was tugging Messi's shirt. The decision was contentious and Maradona even claimed the decision was pre-meditated. Messi was later reportedly found weeping in the changing rooms after the decision.[127][128] Messi returned to the team on 3 September in Argentina's 1–0 World Cup qualifier away defeat to Paraguay. Ahead of the match he had said "This is a re-debut. The first one was a bit short."[129] He then started his first game for Argentina against Peru, in which he was able to win a crucial penalty for Argentina; after the match Pekerman described Messi as "a jewel".[130]
On 28 March 2009, in a World Cup Qualifier against Venezuela, Messi wore the number 10 jersey for the first time with Argentina. This match was the first official match for Diego Maradona as the Argentina manager. Argentina won the match 4–0 with Messi opening the scoring.[131]
On 17 November 2010, Messi scored a last-minute goal against South American rivals Brazil after an individual effort to help his team to a 1–0 win in the friendly match, which was held in Doha. This was the first time that he had scored against Brazil at senior level.[132] Messi scored another last-minute goal on 9 February 2011 against Portugal in a penalty kick which gave his side a 2–1 victory in the friendly match, which was held in Geneva, Switzerland.[133] His first hat-trick for Albiceleste came against Switzerland, on 29 February 2012 which the game ended 3–1 for Argentina.[134]
2006 World Cup[link]
The injury that kept Messi from playing for two months at the end of the 2005–06 season jeopardised his presence in the 2006 World Cup. Nevertheless, Messi was selected in the Argentina squad for the tournament on 15 May 2006. He also played in the final match before the World Cup against the Argentine U-20 team for 15 minutes and a friendly match against Angola from the 64th minute.[135][136] He witnessed Argentina's opening match victory against Ivory Coast from the substitute's bench.[137] In the next match against Serbia and Montenegro, Messi became the youngest player to represent Argentina at a World Cup when he came on as a substitute for Maxi Rodríguez in the 74th minute. He assisted Hernán Crespo's goal within minutes of entering the game and also scored the final goal in the 6–0 victory, making him the youngest scorer in the tournament and the sixth youngest goalscorer in the history of the World Cup.[138] Messi started in Argentina's following 0–0 draw against the Netherlands.[139] In the following game against Mexico, Messi came on as a substitute in the 84th minute, with the score tied at 1–1. He appeared to score a goal, but it was ruled offside with Argentina needing a late goal in extra time to proceed.[140][141] Coach José Pekerman left Messi on the bench during the quarter-final match against Germany, which they lost 4–2 on a penalty shootout.[142]
2007 Copa América[link]
Messi played his first game in the 2007 Copa América on 29 June 2007, when Argentina defeated United States 4–1 in the first game. In this game, he showed his capabilities as a playmaker. He set up a goal for fellow striker Hernán Crespo and had numerous shots on target. Tevez came on as a substitute for Messi in the 79th minute and scored minutes later.[143]
His second game was against Colombia, in which he won a penalty that Crespo converted to tie the game at 1–1. He also played a part in Argentina's second goal as he was fouled outside the box, which allowed Juan Roman Riquelme to score from a freekick, and increase Argentina's lead to 3–1. The final score of the game was 4–2 in Argentina's favor and guaranteed them a spot in the tournament's quarterfinals.[144]
In the third game, against Paraguay the coach rested Messi having already qualified for the quarter-finals. He came off the bench in place of Esteban Cambiasso in the 64th minute, with the score at 0–0. In the 79th minute, he assisted a goal for Javier Mascherano.[145] In the quarter-finals, as Argentina faced Peru, Messi scored the second goal of the game, from a Riquelme pass in a 4–0 win.[146] During the semi-final match against Mexico, Messi scored a lob over Oswaldo Sánchez to see Argentina through to the final with a 3–0 win.[147] Argentina went on to lose 3–0 to Brazil in the final.[148]
2008 Summer Olympics[link]
Having barred Messi from playing for Argentina in the 2008 Olympics,[149] Barcelona agreed to release him after he held talks with newly appointed coach Josep Guardiola.[150] He joined the Argentina squad and scored the first goal in a 2–1 victory over Ivory Coast.[150] He then scored the opening goal and assisted Ángel di María in the second to help his side to a 2–1 extra-time win against the Netherlands.[151] He also featured in Argentina's match against rivals Brazil, in which Argentina took a 3–0 victory, thus advancing to the final. In the gold medal match, Messi again assisted Di María for the only goal in a 1–0 victory over Nigeria.[152]
2010 World Cup[link]
Messi played the entire game on Argentina's opening match in the 2010 World Cup, the 1–0 victory against Nigeria. He had several opportunities to score but was repeatedly denied by Vincent Enyeama.[153] Messi started in Argentina's following 4–1 win against Korea Republic; he participated in all of the goals of his team and helped Gonzalo Higuaín score a hat-trick.[154] On the third and last group stage match Messi captained during Argentina's 2–0 win over Greece, again being the centrepoint of Argentina's play and was voted man of the match.[155]
At the Round of 16 he assisted Carlos Tévez for the first goal in a 3–1 win against Mexico. The World Cup ended for Argentina with a 4–0 loss against Germany in the quarter-finals.[156]
Messi was nominated in ten player shortlist for Golden Ball award by FIFA Technical Study Group. The group identified Messi with words: "Outstanding in his pace and creativity for his team, dribbling, shooting, passing – spectacular and efficient".[157]
2011 Copa América[link]
Messi took part in the Copa América in Argentina, where he failed to score a goal but notched three assists. He was selected man-of-the-match in matches against Bolivia (1–1) and Costa Rica (3–0). Argentina were eliminated in the quarter-finals in a penalty shoot-out against Uruguay (1–1 a.e.t.), with Messi scoring as the first penalty taker.
Outside football[link]
Personal life[link]
Messi was at one stage romantically linked to Macarena Lemos, also from his hometown of Rosario. He is said to have been introduced to her by the girl's father when he returned to Rosario to recover from his injury a few days before the start of the 2006 World Cup.[158][159] He has in the past also been linked to the Argentine glamour model Luciana Salazar.[160][161] In January 2009 he told "Hat Trick Barça", a programme on Canal 33: "I have a girlfriend and she is living in Argentina. I am relaxed and happy".[161] He was seen with the girl, Antonella Roccuzzo,[162] at a carnival in Sitges after the Barcelona-Espanyol derby. Roccuzzo is a fellow native of Rosario.[163]
Messi has two cousins also involved in football: Maxi, a winger for Club Olimpia of Paraguay, and Emanuel Biancucchi, who plays as a midfielder for Spain's Girona FC.[164][165]
Charity[link]
In 2007, Messi established the Leo Messi Foundation, a charity supporting access to education and health care for vulnerable children.[166][167] In response to Messi’s own childhood medical difficulties, the Leo Messi Foundation has offered Argentine children diagnosed with illnesses treatment in Spain and funds covering the transport, hospital and recuperation costs.[168] Messi’s foundation is supported by his own fundraising activity with additional assistance from Herbalife.
On 11 March 2010 Messi was announced as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF.[169] Messi’s UNICEF ambassador activities are aimed at supporting children’s rights. Messi is supported in this by Barcelona, who also have a strong association with UNICEF.[170]
Wealth[link]
In March 2010, France Football ranked him at the top of its list of the world's richest footballers, ahead of David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, with £29.6 million (€33 million) in combined income from salaries, bonuses and off-field earnings.[171][172] His net wealth is estimated at $110 millon.[173]
Media[link]
Messi was featured on the front covers of the video games Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 and Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 and is also involved in promotional campaigns for the games.[174][175] Messi, along with Fernando Torres,[176] is the face of Pro Evolution Soccer 2010, and was also involved in the motion capturing and the trailer.[177][178][179] However, in November 2011 Messi was confirmed as the new face of PES's rival football series FIFA with his debut as a cover star of the series coming in 2012's FIFA Street. Messi is sponsored by the German sportswear company Adidas and features in their television advertisements.[180] In June 2010, Messi also signed a three–year contract with Herbalife[181] which further supports the Leo Messi Foundation.
Messi was named twice in the Time 100, the magazine's annual list of the most influential people in the world, respectively in 2011[182] and in 2012[183].
Also in April 2011, Messi launched a Facebook page and within a few hours, his page had attracted more than six million followers. His Facebook page had over 33 million followers in March 2012.[184]
In May 2012, ex-Real Madrid player Royston Drenthe claimed Lionel Messi repeatedly called him "negro" during his time in Spain.[185] A counter statement issued by Barcelona said: "Messi has always shown a maximum respect and sportsmanship towards his rivals, something which has been recognized by his fellow professionals many times.[186]
On 26 May 2012, Messi was mistakenly announced dead by FOX Sports on its Twitter feed. "We must report the sad news that Lionel Messi is deceased from a heart attack during training #RipMessi," said the tweet that was sent to its followers. The message was deleted seconds later, with FOX Sports then going into damage control mode, while also blaming hackers for the incident.[187]
Career statistics[link]
Club[link]
| Club | Season | League[190] | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apps | Goals | ||
| Barcelona C | 2003–04 3ª | 8 | 5 |
| Barcelona B | 2003–04 2ªB | 5 | 0 |
| 2004–05 2ªB | 17 | 6 | |
| Total | 30 | 11 | |
| Club | Season | League | Cup | Champions League | Supercup | UEFA Super Cup | Club World Cup | Total | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apps | Goals | Assists | Apps | Goals | Assists | Apps | Goals | Assists | Apps | Goals | Assists | Apps | Goals | Assists | Apps | Goals | Assists | Apps | Goals | Assists | ||
| Barcelona | 2004–05 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | — | — | — | 9 | 1 | 0 | ||||||
| 2005–06 | 17 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | — | 25 | 8 | 4 | |||||
| 2006–07 | 26 | 14 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 36 | 17 | 3 | |
| 2007–08 | 28 | 10 | 12 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 9 | 6 | 1 | — | — | — | 40 | 16 | 13 | |||||||
| 2008–09 | 31 | 23 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 2 | 12 | 9 | 5 | — | — | — | 51 | 38 | 18 | |||||||
| 2009–10 | 35 | 34 | 10 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 11 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 53 | 47 | 11 | |
| 2010–11 | 33 | 31 | 18 | 7 | 7 | 3 | 13 | 12 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 0 | — | — | 55 | 53 | 24 | |||||
| 2011–12 | 37 | 50 | 15 | 7 | 3 | 4 | 11 | 14 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 60 | 73 | 28 | |
| Total | 214 | 169 | 71 | 33 | 20 | 10 | 68 | 51 | 15 | 7 | 8 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 329 | 253 | 101 | |
International[link]
| National team | Year | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina U20 | 2005 | 16 | 11 | 3 |
| Total | 16 | 11 | 3 | |
| Argentina U23 | 2008 | 5 | 2 | 2 |
| Total | 5 | 2 | 2 | |
| Argentina | 2005 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| 2006 | 7 | 2 | 2 | |
| 2007 | 14 | 6 | 3 | |
| 2008 | 8 | 2 | 1 | |
| 2009 | 10 | 3 | 2 | |
| 2010 | 10 | 2 | 2 | |
| 2011 | 13 | 4 | 10 | |
| 2012 | 1 | 3 | 0 | |
| Total | 68 | 22 | 20 | |
International goals[link]
Under–20[link]
| Goal | Date | Venue | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 13 January 2005 | Estadio Centanario, Armenia, Colombia |  Vénézuela |
2–0 | 3–0 | 2005 South American Youth Championship |
| 2. | 15 January 2005 | Estadio Palogrande, Manizales, Ecuador |  Bolivia |
2–0 | 4–0 | 2005 South American Youth Championship |
| 3. | 15 January 2005 | Estadio Palogrande, Manizales, Ecuador | Bolivia |
3–0 | 4–0 | 2005 South American Youth Championship |
| 4. | 21 January 2005 | Estadio Palogrande, Manizales, Ecuador |  Peru |
5–0 | 6–0 | 2005 South American Youth Championship |
| 5. | 6 February 2005 | Estadio Palogrande, Manizales, Ecuador | Brazil |
2–1 | 2–1 | 2005 South American Youth Championship |
| 6. | 14 June 2005 | Arke Stadion, Enschede, Netherlands |  Egypt |
1–0 | 2–0 | 2005 World Youth Championship |
| 7. | 22 June 2005 | Univé Stadion, Emmen, Netherlands |  Colombia |
1–1 | 2–1 | 2005 World Youth Championship |
| 8. | 24 June 2005 | Arke Stadion, Enschede, Netherlands |  Spain |
3–1 | 3–1 | 2005 World Youth Championship |
| 9. | 28 June 2005 | Galgenwaard Stadion, Utrecht, Netherlands | Brazil |
1–0 | 2–1 | 2005 World Youth Championship |
| 10. | 2 July 2005 | Galgenwaard Stadion, Utrecht, Netherlands |  Nigeria |
1–0 | 2–1 | 2005 World Youth Championship |
| 11. | 2 July 2005 | Galgenwaard Stadion, Utrecht, Netherlands | Nigeria |
2–1 | 2–1 | 2005 World Youth Championship |
Under–23[link]
| Goal | Date | Venue | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 7 August 2008 | Shanghai Stadium, Shanghai, China |  Côte d'Ivoire |
1–0 | 2–1 | 2008 Summer Olympics |
| 2. | 16 August 2008 | Shanghai Stadium, Shanghai, China |  Netherlands |
1–0 | 2–1 | 2008 Summer Olympics |
Senior team[link]
| Goal | Date | Venue | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 1 March 2006 | St. Jakob-Park, Basel, Switzerland |  Croatia |
2–1 | 2–3 | Friendly |
| 2. | 16 June 2006 | WM-Stadion Gelsenkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, Germany |  Serbia and Montenegro |
6–0 | 6–0 | 2006 World Cup |
| 3. | 5 June 2007 | Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain |  Algeria |
2–2 | 4–3 | Friendly |
| 4. | 5 June 2007 | Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain | Algeria |
4–2 | 4–3 | Friendly |
| 5. | 8 July 2007 | Metropolitano de Fútbol de Lara, Barquisimeto, Venezuela | Peru |
2–0 | 4–0 | 2007 Copa América |
| 6. | 11 July 2007 | Polideportivo Cachamay, Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela |  Mexico |
2–0 | 3–0 | 2007 Copa América |
| 7. | 16 October 2007 | José Pachencho Romero, Maracaibo, Venezuela | Venezuela |
2–0 | 2–0 | 2010 World Cup qualification |
| 8. | 20 November 2007 | Estadio El Campín, Bogotá, Colombia | Colombia |
1–0 | 1–2 | 2010 World Cup qualification |
| 9. | 4 June 2008 | Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, United States | Mexico |
2–0 | 4–1 | Friendly |
| 10. | 11 October 2008 | Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina | Uruguay |
1–0 | 2–1 | 2010 World Cup qualification |
| 11. | 11 February 2009 | Stade Vélodrome, Marseille, France |  France |
2–0 | 2–0 | Friendly |
| 12. | 28 March 2009 | Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina | Venezuela |
1–0 | 4–0 | 2010 World Cup qualification |
| 13. | 14 November 2009 | Vicente Calderón Stadium, Madrid, Spain | Spain |
1–1 | 1–2 | Friendly |
| 14. | 7 September 2010 | Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina | Spain |
1–0 | 4–1 | Friendly |
| 15. | 17 November 2010 | Khalifa International Stadium, Doha, Qatar | Brazil |
1–0 | 1–0 | Friendly |
| 16. | 9 February 2011 | Stade de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland | Portugal |
2–1 | 2–1 | Friendly |
| 17. | 20 June 2011 | Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina |  Albania |
2–0 | 4–0 | Friendly |
| 18. | 7 October 2011 | Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina |  Chile |
2–0 | 4–1 | 2014 World Cup qualification |
| 19. | 15 November 2011 | Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez, Barranquilla, Colombia | Colombia |
1–1 | 2–1 | 2014 World Cup qualification |
| 20. | 29 February 2012 | Stade de Suisse, Wankdorf, Bern, Switzerland |  Switzerland |
1–0 | 3–1 | Friendly |
| 21. | 29 February 2012 | Stade de Suisse, Wankdorf, Bern, Switzerland | Switzerland |
2–1 | 3–1 | Friendly |
| 22. | 29 February 2012 | Stade de Suisse, Wankdorf, Bern, Switzerland | Switzerland |
3–1 | 3–1 | Friendly |
Career totals[link]
| Professional career totals | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teams | Apps | Goals | Goals per game | |
| Clubs | 329 | 253 | 0.77 | |
| National team | 068 | 022 | 0.32 | |
| Olympic final | 05 | 02 | 0.4 | |
| Total | 402 | 277 | 0.69 | |
Honours[link]
Barcelona[link]
Winner
- La Liga (5): 2004–05, 2005–06, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11
- Copa del Rey (2): 2008–09, 2011–12
- Supercopa de España (5): 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011
- UEFA Champions League (3): 2005–06, 2008–09, 2010–11
- UEFA Super Cup (2): 2009, 2011
- FIFA Club World Cup (2): 2009, 2011
Runner-Up
- La Liga (2): 2006–07, 2011–12
- Copa del Rey (1): 2010–11
- UEFA Super Cup (1): 2006
- FIFA Club World Cup (1): 2006
Argentina[link]
Winner
- FIFA U-20 World Cup (1): 2005
- Olympic Gold Medal (1): 2008
Runner-Up
- Copa América (1): 2007
Individual[link]
|
|
Records[link]
- Most goals scored in a season in all competitions: 73 goals
- Most goals scored in a single league season: 50 goals
- Most goals scored in a single UEFA Champions League season: 14 goals
- Most La Liga hat-tricks in a season: 8 hat-tricks
- Most UEFA Champions League hat-tricks: 3 hat-tricks
- Only player to score 2 hat-trick in a Champions League season
- Highest scorer in a single UEFA Champions League game: 5 goals
- Most UEFA Champions League top scorer award: 4 awards
- The only player to receive the UEFA Champions League top scorer award 4 years in a row
- Most La Liga home goals in a season: 35 goals
- Most consecutive league matches scored in: 10 matches
- Youngest player to score 150 league goals: 24 years and 270 days
- Most goals scored in the Supercopa de España: 8 goals
- Most goals scored in FIFA Club World Cup: 4 goals
- Fastest Barcelona hat-trick: completed in 17th minutes
- Barcelona Record Goalscorer: 253 goals
- Barcelona Record Goalscorer in UEFA Champions League: 51 goals
- Barcelona Record Goalscorer in European Competitions: 52 goals
- Barcelona Record Goalscorer in international Competitions: 56 goals
References[link]
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- ^ "Watch Zinedine Zidane and Lionel Messi in Adidas ad". The Guardian (UK). 27 May 2009. http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/video/2009/may/27/zidane-messi-adidas-ad. Retrieved 16 August 2009.
- ^ "Herbalife Becomes New Sponsor". 2 June 2010. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/herbalife-becomes-new-sponsor-of-fc-barcelona-2010-06-02?reflink=MW_news_stmp. Retrieved 7 June 2010.
- ^ "Lionel Messi among Time's 100 most influential people". inside World Soccer. 21 April 2011. http://www.insideworldsoccer.com/2011/04/lionel-messi-among-times-100-most.html.
- ^ "Lionel Messi among Time's 100 most influential people". Time. 19 April 2012. http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2111975_2111976_2112092,00.html.
- ^ "Leo Messi launches Facebook page, nets 6m fans in 3 hours!". inside World Soccer. 7 April 2011. http://www.insideworldsoccer.com/2011/04/leo-messi-launches-facebook-page-nets.html.
- ^ "Royston Drenthe accuses Lionel Messi of racist remarks". inside World Soccer. 10 May 2012. http://www.insideworldsoccer.com/2012/05/royston-drenthe-lionel-messi-negro.html.
- ^ "Drenthe had 'problems' with Messi". ESPNsoccernetr. 12 May 2012. http://www.http://soccernet.espn.go.com//2012/05/royston-drenthe:-barcelona-star-lionel-messi-called-me-'negro'?cc=5901.html.
- ^ "FAIL! FOX Sports tweets Lionel Messi's death". inside World Soccer. 28 May 2012. http://www.insideworldsoccer.com/2012/05/fox-sports-tweets-death-of-lionel-messi.html.
- ^ 101 "'Pichichi' y centenario" (in Spanish). elmundodeportivo. http://hemeroteca.elmundodeportivo.es/preview/2010/01/18/pagina-7/5259184/pdf.html?search=messi 101. Retrieved 17 January 2010.
- ^ "Lionel Messi Bio, Stats, News – Football / Soccer – – ESPN Soccernet". ESPN Soccernet. http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/45843/lionel-messi?cc=5901#ui-tabs-1. Retrieved 26 November 2010.
- ^ Reserve teams in Spain play in the same league system as the senior team. However, they can not play in the same division as their senior team, so the reserve teams can not play in the Copa del Rey.
- ^ a b "Lionel Andrés Messi – Goals in International Matches". RSSSF. http://www.rsssf.com/miscellaneous/messi-intlg.html. Retrieved 2 February 2011.
- ^ "Lionel Messi: A Career in Numbers". http://www.givemefootball.com/champions-league/lionel-messi-career-in-numbers. Retrieved 24.5.12.
- ^ "Lionel Messi: Career Statistics". http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/45843/lionel-messi?cc=5901. Retrieved 24.5.12.
- ^ "Lionel Messi". http://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lionel_Messi. Retrieved 24.5.12.
- ^ "Lionel Messi". FIFA.com. http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/statisticsandrecords/players/player=229397/index.html. Retrieved 2 February 2011.
External links[link]
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Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Lionel Messi |
- Official website (Catalan) (English) (Spanish)
- Lionel Messi on Facebook
- FC Barcelona profile
- BDFutbol profile
- Transfermarkt profile
- Lionel Messi career stats at Soccerbase
- Profile at ESPN
- Lionel Messi at National-Football-Teams.com
- Lionel Messi – FIFA competition record
- Lionel Messi – UEFA competition record
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| Persondata | |
|---|---|
| Name | Messi, Lionel Andrés |
| Alternative names | |
| Short description | Association footballer |
| Date of birth | 24 June 1987 |
| Place of birth | Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina |
| Date of death | |
| Place of death | |
http://wn.com/Lionel_Messi
Related pages:
http://de.wn.com/Lionel Messi
http://es.wn.com/Lionel Messi
http://ru.wn.com/Месси, Лионель
http://cs.wn.com/Lionel Messi
http://pt.wn.com/Lionel Messi
http://pl.wn.com/Lionel Messi
http://hi.wn.com/लियोनेल मेस्सी
http://it.wn.com/Lionel Messi
http://id.wn.com/Lionel Messi
http://nl.wn.com/Lionel Messi
http://fr.wn.com/Lionel Messi
This page contains text from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lionel_Messi
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
 García playing with Benfica |
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| Personal information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Francisco Javier García Fernández | ||
| Date of birth | (1987-02-08) 8 February 1987 (age 25) | ||
| Place of birth | Mula, Spain | ||
| Height | 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in) | ||
| Playing position | Defensive midfielder | ||
| Club information | |||
| Current club | Benfica | ||
| Number | 6 | ||
| Youth career | |||
| 1996–2004 | Real Madrid | ||
| Senior career* | |||
| Years | Team | Apps† | (Gls)† |
| 2004 | Real Madrid | 3 | (0) |
| 2004–2007 | Real Madrid B | 86 | (10) |
| 2007–2008 | Osasuna | 25 | (2) |
| 2008–2009 | Real Madrid | 15 | (0) |
| 2009– | Benfica | 72 | (6) |
| National team‡ | |||
| 2002 | Spain U16 | 3 | (1) |
| 2003–2005 | Spain U17 | 21 | (4) |
| 2005–2006 | Spain U19 | 9 | (2) |
| 2007 | Spain U20 | 5 | (1) |
| 2008–2009 | Spain U21 | 9 | (0) |
| 2012– | Spain | 1 | (0) |
| * Senior club appearances and goals counted for the domestic league only and correct as of 12 May 2012. † Appearances (Goals). |
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This name uses Spanish naming customs; the first or paternal family name is García and the second or maternal family name is Fernández.
Francisco Javier "Javi" García Fernández (born 8 February 1987 in Mula, Murcia) is a Spanish footballer who plays for S.L. Benfica in Portugal. A defensive midfielder by nature, he can also appear as a central defender.
Contents |
Club career[link]
Real Madrid[link]
A product of Real Madrid's youth system, García played three La Liga contests with the first team, making his debut at the age of 17 in a 5–0 home rout of Levante UD, on 28 November 2004.[1] After that, he would spend the entire 2005–06 with Real Madrid Castilla, the team's B-side.
The summer of 2006 was a very busy one for García. First, he won the European Championship with the under-19s,[2] impressing then-first team head coach Fabio Capello, who recalled him to training sessions.
He played in most of Real Madrid's pre-season games, including a starting lineup spot in both Ramón de Carranza Trophy games, playing in central midfield alongside new purchase Émerson. He would not appear for Real's first team in 2006–07, nonetheless.
In August 2007, in the season of his supposed definitive promotion to the first team, coach Bernd Schuster would eventually prevent that golden opportunity (as fellow cantera players Rubén de la Red and Esteban Granero also left the club) and offers began to appear from clubs in the Premier League including Liverpool, and domestic teams such as Atlético Madrid and Deportivo de La Coruña. García would finally settle for CA Osasuna on 31 August, signing for four seasons for a fee of €2.5 million as the Navarre side was keen to replace injury-struck midfielder Javad Nekounam (out of action for several months); having first appeared in a 1–1 home draw with Sevilla FC (one minute played), he scored twice in his first six games, in wins against Levante (4–1)[3] and Villarreal CF (3–2).[4]
García's contract included a buy-back clause that could see him return to Real Madrid for €4 million. Osasuna officially reported, on 29 April 2008, that Real Madrid had exercised their purchase option, meaning his return to the Bernabéu for 2008–09.[5] He made his first league appearance for Real since his return during his side's 7–1 thrashing of Sporting de Gijón on 24 September 2008, coming on as a second-half substitute for Mahamadou Diarra.[6]
Benfica[link]
Deemed surplus to requirements at Real Madrid, García signed for S.L. Benfica in Portugal on 21 July 2009, for five years and a fee of €7 million.[7] An undisputed starter throughout his first season, he also found the net on one occasion, most notably a header in the last minute for the game's only goal against Associação Naval 1º de Maio at home, as the club clung onto the top spot (9 November 2009) and eventually won the championship.
International career[link]
García represented the Spanish under-21s at the 2009 UEFA European Football Championship, appearing against England (0–2 loss)[8] in an eventual group stage exit.
He gained his first cap for the full side on 26 May 2012, playing 22 minutes in a 2–0 friendly win with Serbia in St. Gallen.[9]
File:JaviGarciaspain.png
Javi Garcia playing for Spain national team
Club statistics[link]
| Club | Season | Domestic League | Domestic Cup | League Cup&Supercup | European Competition | Total | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| App | Goals | App | Goals | App | Goals | App | Goals | App | Goals | ||
| Real Madrid | 2004–05 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| 2005–06 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | |
| 2006–07 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | |
| Total | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 2 | 0 | 4 | 0 | |
| Osasuna | 2007–08 | 25 | 2 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 0 | 0 | 25 | 2 |
| Total | 25 | 2 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 0 | 0 | 25 | 2 | |
| Real Madrid | 2008–09 | 15 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Total | 15 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 19 | 0 | |
| Benfica | 2009–10 | 26 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 14 | 1 | 44 | 4 |
| 2010–11 | 24 | 2 | 4 | 1 | 4 | 4 | 13 | 1 | 45 | 8 | |
| 2011–12 | 21 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 9 | 0 | 32 | 2 | |
| Total | 71 | 6 | 5 | 1 | 9 | 4 | 36 | 2 | 120 | 13 | |
| Career Totals | 103 | 8 | 5 | 1 | 10 | 4 | 41 | 2 | 159 | 15 | |
Honours[link]
Club[link]
- Real Madrid
- Real Madrid B
- Benfica
Country[link]
- Spain U19
Personal[link]
García is a cousin of another footballer, Luis García.[10] The latter represented, among others, FC Barcelona, Liverpool and Atlético Madrid.
References[link]
- ^ Real Madrid 5 - Levante 0; at BDFutbol
- ^ García shoulders Spanish burden; UEFA.com, 14 July 2006
- ^ Osasuna 4-1 Levante; ESPN Soccernet, 26 September 2007
- ^ Osasuna 3-2 Villarreal; ESPN Soccernet, 7 October 2007
- ^ El Real Madrid recompra a Javi García (Real Madrid rebuys Javi García); Osasuna's website, 29 April 2008 (Spanish)
- ^ Real Madrid 7-1 Sporting Gijon; ESPN Soccernet 24 September 2008
- ^ Javi García confirmed for €7 million
- ^ "Second-half strikes see England through". UEFA.com. 18 June 2009. http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/under21/fixturesresults/round=15086/match=304491/report=rp.html. Retrieved 26 May 2012.
- ^ "Adrián está listo para la Eurocopa [Adrián is ready for Euro]" (in Spanish). Marca. 26 May 2012. http://www.marca.com/marcador/futbol/2011_12/amistosos_seleccion/2/spa_srb/. Retrieved 26 May 2012.
- ^ Javi García se lo piensa: el Atlético de Madrid más cerca (Javi García thinks about it: Atlético de Madrid getting closer); Liga Fútbol, 24 July 2007 (Spanish)
External links[link]
- BDFutbol profile
- Stats and profile at Zerozero
- Stats at ForaDeJogo
- Javi García – FIFA competition record
- Transfermarkt profile
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|
|||||
| Persondata | |
|---|---|
| Name | García, Francisco Javier |
| Alternative names | García, Javi |
| Short description | Spanish footballer |
| Date of birth | 8 February 1987 |
| Place of birth | Mula, Spain |
| Date of death | |
| Place of death | |
http://wn.com/Francisco_Javier_García
Related pages:
http://ru.wn.com/Гарсия, Хави
http://fr.wn.com/Javi García
http://nl.wn.com/Francisco Javier García Fernández
http://pt.wn.com/Javi García
http://de.wn.com/Francisco Javier García
http://it.wn.com/Francisco Javier García
http://pl.wn.com/Javi García
http://es.wn.com/Javi García
This page contains text from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francisco_Javier_García
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
