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Kosme DamianPortuguese footballer
Country:
 Portugal |
Content:
- Cosme Damião: The Pioneer of Portuguese Football
- Founding of Sport Lisboa e Benfica
- Playing Career and Achievements
- National Team Appearances
- Coaching Career
- Post-Career Activities
- Achievements
- Trophy of Three Cities: 1913
Cosme Damião: The Pioneer of Portuguese Football
Early Life and EducationCosme Damião was born on November 2, 1885, in Lisbon, Portugal. He attended the Casa Pia school, where his passion for football began.
Founding of Sport Lisboa e Benfica
At the age of 18, Damião joined forces with friends to establish a football team. A year later, in 1904, the team was officially named Sport Lisboa. In 1906, it merged with Sport Club de Benfica, forming Sport Lisboa e Benfica.
Playing Career and Achievements
Damião spent his entire professional career at Benfica, playing as a midfielder. He later became the team's captain and coach. Over 12 seasons, he made 76 appearances and scored 14 goals. Damião led Benfica to an impressive five Lisbon championships, including three consecutive titles from 1911 to 1914.
National Team Appearances
Damião also represented Lisbon and the unofficial Portuguese national team in international matches.
Coaching Career
While still an active player, Damião assumed the role of Benfica's head coach. He continued to lead the team after retiring from playing, serving as coach for an astonishing 18 years.
Post-Career Activities
After his coaching career, Damião became a football administrator. He served as president of Casa Pia and founded the football newspaper "O Sport Lisboa." He also worked as the newspaper's director from 1913 to 1931.
Achievements
Lisbon Championships: 1909/10, 1911/12, 1912/13, 1913/14, 1915/16, 1916/17, 1917/18, 1919/20
Trophy of Three Cities: 1913
Trophy of Four Cities: 1916Trophy of Easter: 1925
