“The plan includes dynamic policing based on a risk assessment to be conducted at the end of the game,” announced Superintendent Manuel Gonçalves during a press conference at the Lisbon Metropolitan Command of the PSP. “Depending on the assessment, we will either focus on the Estádio da Luz or the Estádio José Alvalade, as it will be from this location that the Sporting team will depart if they claim the championship. Consequently, there will be temporary traffic constraints in some areas.”
Superintendent-Chief Luís Elias noted that while the risk assessment remains similar to previous matches, the operation will be more complex as it will simultaneously focus on two stadiums located just a few kilometers apart, as well as the Marquês de Pombal square, where large crowds could gather if Sporting or Benfica win the national title. There is also the potential for rival fans to cross paths if the match remains closely contested until the final minutes.
“This will be a high-risk game, but in a different context,” Luís Elias explained, highlighting the unique approach required for this particular match involving Lisbon’s “big teams,” which are always deemed “high risk.”
The two senior officers also announced “progressive closures” of various routes around the capital, with particular attention to Marquês de Pombal. A venue for potential celebrations will be set up there, making that space inaccessible to traffic from 5:30 p.m. onwards.
To prevent large gatherings in or around the iconic Lisbon square, the PSP has stated that only after the match’s conclusion will fans of the champion team, if any, be allowed into the improvised area for celebrations.
“There will not be an extensive road closure, only during the procession,” Superintendent Manuel Gonçalves assured, adding, “Obviously, when the team arrives at the Marquês de Pombal venue, there will be organized policing to ensure both public safety and the team’s arrival when the time comes, if applicable.”
The PSP also advised supporters to arrive at the stadiums well in advance, preferably using public transportation networks such as trains, buses, and the metro. It is noted that the metro stations near Marquês de Pombal—Marquês de Pombal, Avenida, Parque, and Picoas—are expected to close from the time of the match until the end of celebrations, concluding with the network’s usual midnight closure.
Sporting and Benfica, currently tied at the top of the Primeira Liga standings, will face off this Saturday at 6:00 p.m. at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. This match, part of the 33rd round of the Primeira Liga, could potentially determine the 2024/25 national champion. Referee João Pinheiro from the Braga association is set to officiate.
