Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença attended Benfica's match at Estádio da Luz on Thursday despite recent controversy over leaked audio recordings. The match was the first leg of the Europa League third qualifying round between Benfica and Scottish side Hearts.
Proença kept his attendance unconfirmed until the last minute. His appearance comes shortly after the release of audio files featuring conversations with Benfica officials, including club president Rui Costa. In the recordings, made while Proença was running for FPF president, he appeared to threaten Benfica by referencing legal cases involving the club.
FPF Delegation at Estádio da Luz
Proença arrived in Lisbon accompanied by a large delegation from the Portuguese Football Federation. The group included national team manager Jorge Jesus, who watched his third live match since taking charge of the national team.
Former Benfica general director Lourenço Coelho, who now serves as FPF director for national teams, was also present. He was joined by former Benfica player João Vieira Pinto.
Recent Matches
Thursday's appearance marked Proença's second stadium visit in consecutive weeks. Last week, the FPF president traveled to Minho to watch Sp. Braga play in the Conference League qualifying rounds.
