LISBON, Portugal--(BUSINESS WIRE)--UEFA Champions League Final activities kicked off today in Lisbon as UEFA handed over a maxi pitch to the city, to be used for grass-roots football activities. Maniche, former Portugal international, was on hand to coach a group of local children during the first match played on the pitch, located in Clube Oriental de Lisboa’s premises.
“It’s great to see that Lisbon is hosting the UEFA Champions League final and the UEFA Womens’ Champions League final. With the inauguration of the maxi pitch UEFA shows they are not just interested in staging big events. UEFA is ensuring that football is a sport for everyone, from the stars who will play at the Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica to the local kids who will come here and play with their friends” said Maniche.
UEFA Champions League activities continue tomorrow with the opening of the UEFA Champions League Festival, located in Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s main square. The Festival, which runs until 25 May, is a free event featuring a range of activities and exhibitions.
UEFA is inviting fans and families to visit and take part in the activities, including the opportunity to have photos taken with the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Women's Champions League trophies.
Other highlights include the UEFA Champions League Museum and UEFA Champions Gallery (open daily from 10.00–20.30 until 25 May), the open-air cinema showing the world premiere of the Champions League film, and the Ultimate Champions Match on Friday 23 May.
The UEFA Women’s Champions League final also takes place on Thursday 22 May at 19h30 GMT. The final, which opposes defending champions VfL Wolfsburg and Sweden’s Tyresö FF, will be played at Estádio do Restelo in Lisbon. The final match includes performances by international R&B star Anselmo Ralph.
More information on www.uefa.com