One of the legendary names of European football, S. L. Benfica, is being investigated for possible match-fixing between 2016 and 2019. The two-time champions of the European Cup have called the accusations “unfounded”.
The Portuguese media reported that the indictment had been issued by the public prosecutor’s office who are asking for Benfica to be suspended from sporting competition for a period of six months to three years.
The club released a statement saying: “Benfica and its lawyers will analyze in detail the accusation of which they were notified today.” Adding that the suspicions related to “acts allegedly imputed to its ex-president and a former advisor”.
According to local media, prosecutors are looking at the relationship between the club and Vitoria Setubal who are located 30 miles to the south of Lisbon, in what is being dubbed the ‘email case’ because of communications between the two.
Benfica are believed to have offered Vitoria Setubal financial advantages in return for easier games between the two teams. In the period in question, Benfica won the league three times!
The main figure in this complaint is Luis Filipe Vieira, who ran the club for 18 years until his arrest in July 2021, in a case involving breach of trust and fraud.
Additionally, the company that manages Benfica and several of its executives were charged with tax fraud. The public prosecutor said they had created a slush fund using false invoices.
The current president of the club, Portuguese legend, Rui Costa (pictured) has been absolved from that case, however, prosecutors say that Costa will be called to testify at the trial, against the club he made over 100 appearances for. Perhaps more troubling for Benfica, their fans, and their reputation is that this would be the third corruption case against them in just over three years.
If they are found guilty, prosecutors want to throw the book at the Eagles. Any punishments though will cast a long shadow for the club that plays its football at the Stadium of Lights.
The Luz club’s rivals have entered the debate with Sporting demanding those responsible are punished, while Porto is considering asking for compensation.
