The late, great Maria José Valério once sang about Sporting. She said fans of all ages, from the youngest grandchild to the oldest grandparent, cheer for the club. This timeless passion still echoes today. It’s heard in the roaring stands and felt in the digital world of fantasy football leagues.
Take the Freire family. They are making their debut in the Liga Record. This is Portugal’s best virtual football league, a game that truly bridges generations. Carlos Freire, a fearsome attacker for Sporting in the 70s and 80s, made sure his grandson, Rodrigo, knew the roar of the lion. That deep love for Sporting runs strong in their blood.
Rodrigo, still young, often visits Alvalade stadium with his grandad. But when the game is on TV, it is usually his dad by his side. Rodrigo has even started playing himself, taking his first steps in football as a defensive midfielder. When it came time to pick players for their fantasy team, one name jumped out for both Carlos and Rodrigo: Hjulmand. He happens to play the same position as young Rodrigo.
Carlos Freire, the former Portugal international, sees Hjulmand as a real standout. “There are many good players,” Carlos noted, “but he truly catches the eye.” Looking ahead, Carlos believes the league will be “a tight race.” Yet, he is confident his beloved Sporting is “on the right road” to win their third straight title.