As Benfica prepares to face Feyenoord in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, both teams are focused on securing victory. However, beyond the competitive spirit, the clubs have collaborated to support their local communities.
Through their charitable foundations, Benfica and Feyenoord harness the influence of football to enhance social development programs aimed at diverse local populations. In anticipation of this week’s match, the Benfica Foundation and Feyenoord Foundation organized several events for the Lisbon community, engaging groups such as schoolchildren, refugees, individuals with disabilities, and older adults.
Local youngsters were treated to special gifts from Feyenoord’s coaching staff, contributing to an event that drew around 200 participants and showcased the effective collaboration between the clubs.
Nuno Costa, head of planning and partnerships at the Benfica Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the joint sessions. “Having Feyenoord coaches here is a rare opportunity, and it’s a fantastic day for the participants,” he noted. “We’re leveraging the influence of football to inspire and foster social cohesion within our communities. Engaging with prominent clubs like Feyenoord helps boost self-confidence and self-esteem, showing individuals that they matter. European football creates a network that unites clubs around various global issues.”
The collaboration also served as an educational opportunity for foundation staff and community coaches. “While benefiting the children is our primary goal, it also provides valuable learning experiences for the coaches,” said Ton Strooband, manager of social impact and development at the Feyenoord Foundation. He added that the relationship between the two clubs has flourished over the years and allows for cultural exchange. “Participants get to interact with individuals from different backgrounds, and our coaches return to Rotterdam with fresh ideas and experiences to apply in our work.”