A challenge echoed from Quarteira this past Saturday. João Noronha Lopes, a hopeful to lead the Eagles, made his intentions very clear: he wants to debate. He offered a bold dare to the other candidates aiming for Benfica’s presidency. “Whoever doesn’t show up?” he stated directly. “Then let that chair sit empty.”
This strong declaration came during the “Benfica in Discussion” forum. It was the third such event his campaign, named ‘Benfica Above All,’ had put together. Around 150 passionate members and loyal fans gathered at the local Casa do Benfica in Quarteira. The discussion stretched for over three hours, showing just how much energy and interest filled the room.
Noronha Lopes focused much of his speech on the very heart of the club: its members. He strongly believes fans should have a bigger say in club matters. “I want to see our members featured on BTV,” he said, talking about the club’s own television channel. He also touched on a common frustration for many supporters: buying tickets. “I know the struggle of not getting tickets myself,” he admitted, hitting a raw nerve for many. He pushed for crystal-clear rules on how tickets are sold. Beyond that, he wants the football team and its players to feel much closer to the fans, bridging any gap between them.
The former club director also spoke about the game itself and what it means to play for Benfica. He dreams of bringing back the “inferno of Luz.” This refers to the electric, intimidating atmosphere that once defined Benfica’s home stadium on match days. He envisions a “European Benfica,” a team that battles fiercely and succeeds across the continent. “We cannot get used to losing,” he warned firmly. He also argued that the club’s own young talent, those players who come up through Benfica’s system, should remain with the team for a longer time.
Noronha Lopes has been on a busy tour, previously visiting towns like Famalicão, Mira, and Campo Maior before his stop in Quarteira. His campaign marches on. The next key meeting is planned for Friday, July 25th. It will take place at the Alto dos Moinhos auditorium in the city of Lisbon.