In the summer of 1981, there was great anticipation surrounding Standard de Liège as they prepared for their participation in the UEFA Cup. Under the leadership of coach Paul Van Himst, the team was filled with confidence, combining experienced players with young talents who shared the ambition to shine on the European stage. That night, on September 23, 1981, they faced the Portuguese giants Benfica in a thrilling encounter that would define the club's history.

The atmosphere at Stade de Sclessin was electric, with thousands of supporters cheering on their team. It was not just a match; it was a battle for recognition at the European level. The players gave everything they had, and the crowd provided them with the energy they needed. The team played with tactical discipline and an unyielding spirit, resulting in an unforgettable match.

The victory against Benfica, one of the biggest clubs in Europe, was no accident. It was the result of years of hard work, development, and investment in youth. This triumph was not only a win on the field but also a symbolic victory for the city of Liège and all its inhabitants. It demonstrated to the world that Standard de Liège was a force to be reckoned with in European football.

That evening in September 1981 would become a turning point in the club's life. The victory not only advanced Standard to the next round of the UEFA Cup but also strengthened the bond between the club and its supporters. The sense of pride and unity that the win ignited is still palpable in the streets of Liège. Fans who were present that night still share stories about the magic of that moment and the impact it had on their lives.

The European campaign of that season became a legendary tale, and the victory over Benfica remains one of the most memorable moments in Standard de Liège's history. It reminds us that, no matter the challenges ahead, the spirit of Les Rouches will always prevail. That unforgettable European night in 1981 is not just a chapter in the club's history but a lasting memory of the passion and determination that have always characterized Standard de Liège.