Top-flight Portuguese football club Sport Lisboa e Benfica has made its entry into the world of esports, with the signing of Brazilian FIFA star Henrique Lempke.
Lempke, better known as Zezinho to gamers, participated in the FIFA eWorld Cup in 2017 and 2019, reaching the quarter finals and earning a place in the Top 8 World Cup.
Commenting on the signing commercial and marketing director of SL Benfica, Miguel Bento, said:
“Innovation is part of our DNA, Sport Lisboa e Benfica could not be indifferent to the growth of this virtual industry, and specifically esports. This is a first step in a bet for the future that will allow a greater involvement of our young fans in an activity that generates much passion and interest.”
While Zezinho himself added:
“I’m very happy to represent the biggest club in Portugal and one of the biggest in Europe. I can’t wait to wear the colours of Benfica and I’ll do my best to win even more trophies for the club!”
Zezinho kicked off SL Benfica’s effort in the FIFA20 Global Series Qualifiers in Atlanta, USA, today, and in early February he will travel to Portugal to meet fans in-person at the Sport Lisboa e Benfica Stadium.