E Pluribus Unum: The Eagle Reclaims Its Banner

 

Club president Rui Costa unveiled Benfica's new emblem at the General Assembly on Saturday, October 31, at the Estadio da Luz complex. It will debut on new membership cards issued after the renumbering process, then spread gradually across the club. Benfica says the new identity will be phased in across official touch points, stadium facilities and future kit collections.

The changes are subtle but meaningful. The eagle takes on a more golden tone and grips the banner bearing “E Pluribus Unum”. The bicycle wheel rim switches from white to gold and the red-and-white shield is slightly wider. The look is more classic, inspired by the crest used between 1973 and 1999 and the eagle holding the banner is a detail supporters had long requested. 

The update was prompted by the club’s new statutes, approved on March 8 2025. It is a respectful refinement that restores traditional details rather than a radical rebrand and it aligns the crest with the official description in the club’s rulebook. It also fits a wider push to protect the club’s identity. New kit guidelines require the original full-colour emblem rather than monochrome versions and they take effect from the 2026-27 season onward. 

Benfica Join the Chase for Mexican Teen Gilberto Mora

 

Gilberto Mora turned 18 on October 14 and FIFA rules now allow a move to Europe. Benfica are among the clubs lining up.

Homegrown Talent

Mora joined Tijuana's youth system in 2019 and did all his development there. His family moved to Tijuana when he was nine and his knack for rescuing struggling youth sides earned him the nickname "El Bombero". In August 2024 he became the third-youngest debutante in Liga MX history. This past summer, he made his World Cup debut at 17 years and 240 days, breaking a record that had stood since 1930 as Mexico's youngest World Cup player.

The Numbers

Mora has 53 appearances for Tijuana across Liga MX and the Leagues Cup, with 10 goals and two assists. He also has 12 senior caps for Mexico. His chance creation ranks among the best of his peers.

Benfica's Interest 

Portugal's Noticias ao Minuto reported in the summer that Benfica were showing interest in the Mexican international and have been joined by German side Borussia Dortmund and English club Liverpool. Benfica are said to be the more proactive club of the three and have had preliminary talks with Mora's agent.

The Price

The price tag for the 18 year old could be in the €25 million range which is said to be his buyout clause, though depending on what negotiations are discussed and perks added to any move, this could come down lower. The winter transfer window should tell us more. 

Benfica make it look easy in Taca da Liga win

Benfica surged into the Taca da Liga Final Four with a commanding 4-1 victory over Gil Vicente at the Estadio da Luz. Despite manager Marco Silva shaking up his starting lineup with seven changes, the Eagles maintained their high-pressing dominance.

Dodi Lukebakio opened the scoring in the 36th minute, capitalizing on a crisp offensive spell. Just four minutes later, Georgiy Sudakov doubled the advantage, netting a smooth strike to secure a 2-0 halftime cushion.

Lukebakio struck again in the 54th minute, drilling home his second of the night. Gil Vicente managed a brief response two minutes later when substitute Andreas Lausen found the back of the net to make it 3-1. However, Benfica quickly slammed the door on any comeback. Jhon Duran wrapped up the scoring in the 81st minute following a rapid transition spearheaded by Rafa Silva. 

Gil Vicente's frustration boiled over shortly after when Antonio Espigares received a direct red card, leaving the visitors to finish the match with ten men. Benfica will now face rivals FC Porto in the competitions semi-final which is set to take place in early January.