A fierce rivalry boiled over in Lisbon on Thursday night, as clashes between supporters of Sporting CP and Benfica resulted in 124 arrests, according to CNN Portugal. The confrontations occurred both near the João Rocha Pavilion – the venue for a futsal derby – and in the vicinity of Sporting’s Estádio José Alvalade, prompting a significant police intervention.
Police detained 63 individuals associated with Benfica and 61 with Sporting, citing suspected participation in a riot, along with related offenses including the improper use and discharge of pyrotechnic devices. Authorities also reported at least two injuries, with both individuals receiving on-site medical attention.
The Portuguese Public Security Police (PSP) detailed the swift and coordinated response, involving specialized sports intelligence units and rapid intervention teams. Detainees were taken into temporary custody and will face judicial proceedings. A range of potentially illicit materials were seized, including spent pyrotechnics, iron bars, stones, belts, sticks, a hammer, a bladed weapon, and items used to conceal identities, such as balaclavas.
The incident has prompted an investigation by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) to determine responsibility for the unrest. The FPF’s inquiry will seek to establish the causes of the violence and identify any parties accountable for the disturbances.
On the pitch, the futsal derby itself ended in a 1-1 draw. Allan Guilherme scored for Sporting, while Pany Varela found the net for Benfica. Despite the tie, Benfica maintains its lead in the futsal league standings with 46 points, six ahead of Sporting, who have 40.
This latest outbreak of violence underscores the intense and often volatile nature of the Derby de Lisboa, a fixture deeply embedded in Portuguese football culture. The rivalry between Benfica and Sporting, two of Portugal’s “Big Three” clubs, dates back to 1907, when a group of Benfica players defected to Sporting, laying the foundation for a century-plus of heated competition.
The incidents are not isolated. Historical clashes between the clubs’ supporters have resulted in serious injuries and even fatalities. A 1996 firecracker incident claimed the life of a Sporting fan, and a supporter died in 2017 during another confrontation. These events highlight the potential for escalation and the challenges faced by authorities in managing the passions of rival fan bases.
The ultras culture, prevalent among both Sporting and Benfica supporters, contributes to the atmosphere at matches, characterized by elaborate displays, coordinated chants, and the use of pyrotechnics. However, this same culture has also been linked to instances of violence and disorder, as evidenced by the involvement of ultras groups in the 2018 attack on Sporting’s youth academy in Alcochete, where players and staff were assaulted.
The PSP’s statement emphasized the effectiveness of their intervention, highlighting the deployment of specialized units and the seizure of weapons and disguises. The swift response aimed to contain the violence and prevent further escalation. The ongoing investigation will likely focus on identifying the individuals involved in the clashes and determining the extent of their culpability.
The Derby de Lisboa extends beyond the realm of futsal, encompassing football (soccer) and other sports. The rivalry is a significant cultural phenomenon in Portugal, attracting attention from across the country and within the Portuguese diaspora. The passion and intensity of the supporters contribute to the unique atmosphere surrounding these matches, but also present ongoing security challenges for authorities.
The FPF’s decision to launch an inquiry signals a commitment to addressing the issues of supporter violence and ensuring the safety of players and fans. The outcome of the investigation could lead to sanctions against the clubs or individual supporters, as well as increased security measures for future derbies. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to prevent further outbreaks of violence.