Lisbon in flames / A Chama Imensa

This is a new one for us. A few nights ago, a leader of Benfica’s ultras dropped us an email. The Benfica Ultras are these guys, as a reminder. Benfica’s road to Amsterdam, the home of this year’s Europa League Final, continues in Turkey tonight against Fenerbahce, home to some of the most passionate and devoted fans in the world.

Here’s part of what was sent our way: “Dear AFR, as you probably know, this can be a dream season for all Benfica fans. Benfica is much more than a club, it’s a religion and being an "Benfiquista” it’s a feeling that can’t be explained.

Being a “Benfiquista” is to have a huge flame in your soul. Benfica is that and much more and that is why it is said “Benfiquistas” have inside them the “Huge Flame” - Chama Imensa (in Portuguese). That brings me to the reason why i’m writing you this message. That is the name an unofficial motivation video fully designed, filmed and edited by members and supporters of Sport Lisboa e Benfica.

It was filmed anonymously throughout Lisbon.“

Benfica are in flying form this year; unbeaten on a domestic level, with their 12th man always being behind Jorge Jesus’ side. Tonight they will be outnumbered and outsung, but despite the minority, we’ll see if Benfica’s flame will stay lit in one of Europe’s most intimidating environments. Eles acreditam. [Posted by Eric and Dom]