“Rest in peace” – Super Eagles coach Peseiro mourns Chalana

The Nigerian national team coach laments the demise of one of the most celebrated figures in Portuguese football

Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro has mourned the demise of Portuguese football great Fernando Albino de Sousa Chalana.

Benfica icon Chalana died on Wednesday, August 10, at the age of 63, due to degenerative disease.

A hero in Portugal and France, Chalana’s death has drawn tributes from many in the football world, including former Sporting Lisbon manager Peseiro.

On his Instagram page, Peseiro wrote (translated): “Fernando Chalana, the Little Genius, left. An unavoidable figure of Portuguese football, who will never be forgotten. My sincere condolences to all friends and family. Rest in peace, Chalana.”

Who was Fernando Chalana?

Widely regarded as one of the greatest talents of his era in Portuguese football, Chalana won six league titles and three Taça de Portugal honours with Benfica across two spells.

The left winger also spent three years at Bordeaux, winning two Ligue 1 crowns and two Coupe de France titles.

Named two-time Portuguese Footballer of the Year, Chalana helped Portugal claim bronze at the 1984 UEFA European Championship.

Chalana was one of only two Portuguese stars – along with defender João Pinto – who made the Team of the Tournament.

After his retirement, Chalana later worked as a manager at Benfica.