Thank you, Little Genius!

Little Genius to many, simply Chalana to others, one of the most remarkable and iconic football players in the centenary history of Sport Lisboa e Benfica. This Monday, February 10, marks the 66th anniversary of the birth of Fernando Chalana, who wore the Manto Sagrado for 13 seasons (1974/75 to 1983/84 and 1987/88 to 1989/90) and left us on August 10, 2022. Forever in our hearts!

August 10, 2022, is a date eternalized in the memory of Benfiquistas, but not only. It was the day when Fernando Chalana, an emblematic figure in the history of Sport Lisboa e Benfica, left us at the age of 63. The Little Genius wore the Sacred Mantle for 13 years as a player, won more than a dozen titles (6 National Championships, 2 Portuguese Cups, 2 Super Cups and 3 Honor Cups) and lined up with an eagle on his chest in 410 games and scored 64 goals. Chalana is gone, it is already a year of nostalgia, but his legacy will remain forever! Chalana has passed away, it is already a year of longing, but his legacy will remain forever!

The ceremony honoring Fernando Chalana, the Little Genius, took place this Friday, August 12, at Estádio da Luz. Previously, Chalana's body had been in state in the Basílica da Estrela, from where the funeral procession departed. Filled with emotion and symbolism, this last farewell had the massive presence of supporters, Governing Bodies, Professional Football, Youth Football, athletes from the various sports of the Club and other personalities from the universe of Sport Lisboa e Benfica. Thank You, Chalana!