West Ham: all about the football team

West Ham United is a team from London that doesn't chase the big headlines but always stays in the game. Founded in 1895 as a football club of shipyard workers, it grew over the years into a full-fledged participant in the Premier League and European Cups.

The club has its history, its traditions, its heroes — and even its own song, which everyone who has been to a match at least once knows. They do not promise mountains of gold here, but honestly work in the field. And this is West Ham's greatest asset.

\n
\"West Ham are a team that proves that true strength lies in tradition and character.\"
\n

\n","sporting_achievements_html":"

West Ham history

At first it was just a team of factory workers who were going to chase the ball after the shift. But over time, the matter became serious. In 1900 the club changed its name to the one it bears today. West Ham played in the lower divisions for a long time until it made its way to the Higher League, where it began to gain momentum.

**The very first FA Cup final for West Ham was in 1923 - the one that went down in history as the \"white final\" because of the crowd at Wembley. Then the team lost, but it was already talked about.

In the 60s the club really opened up. The players of West Ham — Moore, Hurst, Peters — were the basis of the England team, which won the World Cup in 1966.

\n
\"Then there were different periods. There were years in the First Division, there were also in the Championship. But West Ham always came back.\"
\n

In the 2000s, the team found a new rhythm — building itself from the bottom up. In 2016 it moved from good old Upton Park to a new arena — London Stadium. And in 2023 it won the European Cup — the UEFA Conference League. This is not just a trophy, but proof that the path was the right one.

\n","club_identity_html":"

West Ham Stadium

London Stadium is the current home of West Ham. A large arena built for the 2012 Olympics and later converted into a football stadium. There are more than 60,000 seats, and it is one of the largest venues in the country. Located in Stratford — the new center of London, it is convenient to get there by train and underground.

Until 2016, the club played at Upton Park — an old, cozy, slightly cramped, but home stadium. Many fans miss that atmosphere. It was close, loud, in its own way. But the new arena is a different level, more spectators, more opportunities.

\n
\"At the London Stadium, the team plays with confidence. There have already been victories against the top teams here, and it was here that West Ham won the matches that led them to the Conference League final.\"
\n

West Ham achievements

West Ham doesn't have a shelf full of trophies, but the ones there are not random:

The team won the FA Cup three times — in 1964, 1975 and 1980.
In 1965 she won the Cup of Cups — it was the first international trophy.
In 2023, West Ham reminded of itself again — won the UEFA Conference League, beating Fiorentina in the final. It wasn't just a win, it was the culmination of years of team building.

In different years, the club played in the League Cup finals, reached the Eurocup quarterfinals, and was in the top 6 of the championship several times. It is a stable club that sometimes rolls down but always comes back up.

\n","current_status_and_future_html":"

West Ham famous players

Even those who have never watched football have heard of Bobby Moore. He is the symbol of West Ham and the captain of the national team that won the World Cup. Next to him is Jeff Hurst, who scored three goals in that final. And Martin Peters, another hero of that lineup.

In recent times the club played Joe Cole, Trevor Sinclair, Carlton Cole, as well as Frank Lampard - it was at West Ham that he started his career. Mark Noble is another important image. He did not play in the top teams, but he was the heart of the team for more than 15 years.

\n
\"Of the latter is Declan Rice, who became a captain and a real leader until he joined Arsenal.\"
\n

Jarrod Boen, who scored the winning goal in the Conference League Final, also became a fan favorite.

West Ham interesting facts

West Ham Anthem is the song \"I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles\". It is sung before every match, and the stands launch soap bubbles. It looks childish, but in fact it is a strong tradition. It is about hope, about faith in the best, even when it is difficult.
\n
The club is nicknamed \"hammer breakers\" — in honor of its working class origin. These symbols have remained on the emblem until today.
\n

\n
\"West Ham is not ashamed of its roots - on the contrary, it is proud of them.\"
\n

It is worth noting that West Ham remains a unique example of how a club can maintain its identity in modern football. Will the team be able to consolidate their European ambitions? One thing is certain — the London Stadium spirit and the Hammer traditions make West Ham a special place where work ethic meets football dreams and every victory is earned by honest work. This is a club that proves that real power is not in money, but in character and dedication.

\n","logo":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/496_a3ecd8b63a.png","mime":"image/png","caption":null,"formats":{"large_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_avif_496_a3ecd8b63a.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"large_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_webp_496_a3ecd8b63a.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"small_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_avif_496_a3ecd8b63a.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"small_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_webp_496_a3ecd8b63a.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"medium_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_avif_496_a3ecd8b63a.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"medium_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_webp_496_a3ecd8b63a.webp","mime":"image/webp"}}}},"team_b":{"id":49673,"name":"Brentford FC","short_name":"Brentford","tla_name":"BRE","type":"club","gender":"male","status":"active","official_name":"Brentford Football Club","founded":1889,"colors":"Red,White,Black","nicknames":"The Bees","createdAt":"2024-11-04T12:40:32.759Z","updatedAt":"2025-08-11T14:18:06.741Z","website":"http://www.brentfordfc.co.uk","address":"27 Great West Road","address_city":"Hounslow, Borough of London","address_zip":"TW8 9BW","locale":"en","stb_id":"brentford-fc","tier":null,"description":null,"top_position":null,"history_and_foundation":"## Brentford: a football revolution with intelligence\n\n**Brentford** is a **London club** that for a long time **did not attract much attention**, but suddenly began to **change the perception of modern football**. Founded in **1889**, this club from **west London** has long been **\"own for its own\"** - with narrow stands, a modest budget and loyal fans.\n\nToday, **Brentford** is no longer just a **pretty underdog**, but a **well-organized, intelligent team** that gives a fight even to the top teams. Not because he spends more — but because he **thinks better**.\n\n> \"Brentford proves that to be competitive in the Premier League, you don't have to spend millions — you just have to have a system and a mind.\"","sporting_achievements":"## Brentford history\n\nFor a long time, the **story of Brentford** was written **without loud headlines**. The club played in **lower English leagues**, changed **coaches**, **stadiums**, **structure**, but always remained a part of **local culture**.\n\nIn the **1930s**, the team rose to the **First Division**, but after the **World War II** they went down again and settled for a long time in **League 1 and League 2** - effectively the **third and fourth tiers** of English football.\n\nEverything began to change in **2012**, when the club bought **Matthew Benham** — an **analyst** who decided to build football **on data, not intuition**. Since then, **Brentford** began to **select players based on statistics**, hire coaches with a **modern vision** and even **rejected the classic academy**.\n\nIn **2021** the club entered the **Premier League** for the first time in history via the **play-offs**, after several dramatic attempts. This became a **recognition of the built system**: the team not only remained in the elite, but also began to **confidently beat big rivals**.\n","club_identity":"## Brentford Stadium\n\n**Brentford Community Stadium** is the team's new home, opening in **2020**. It is **compact** — a little more than **17 thousand seats**, but **modern and comfortable**. Each seat has a **good view**, and the atmosphere combines **coziness and energy**.\n\nBefore that, the club played at **Griffin Park** — an old stadium known for its **four corner pubs**. Many fans remember it with nostalgia, but admit: **new arena** is **the right step**.\n\n> \"Brentford Community Stadium is an example of how you can make a modern arena without pathos, but with care for the fans.\"\n\n## Brentford achievements\n\n**Brentford** don't have a shop window lined with trophies, but there are **achievements that are more important than cups**:\n\n* **Exit to the Premier League** in **2021** — for the first time in history.\n* **Enshrining in the elite** and **stable play** against top clubs.\n* **Victory in the play-off final** over **Swansea** that lifted the \"curse of the last step\".\n\nToday, **Brentford** is a **full-fledged player of the Premier League**, which builds success not on random victories, but on **systematicity and strategy**.\n","current_status_and_future":"## Brentford famous players\n\n* **Ivan Toney** is the top scorer who came from the lower leagues and became a candidate for the **England team**.\n* **Brian Mbeumo** is an example of **successful scouting**.\n* **David Raya** is a top-level goalkeeper, currently at **Arsenal**.\n* **Christian Eriksen** is a player who has bounced back from **heart problems** with a move from **Brentford**.\n\n> \"They don't buy stars here - they create them here.\"\n\n## Brentford interesting facts\n\n* **The first club in England** to **abandon the classic academy**, focusing on players aged 17+.\n* Has his own **analytics company** that selects players based on statistics and **mental qualities**.\n\n**It is worth noting** that **Brentford** is **an example of a football revolution** where **smart strategy, not money** comes to the fore. This is a club that has proven: **systematic, analysis and the right approach** can lift even an **underdog to the top**.","stb_internal_id":"0192f730-ee70-7370-9323-88657fd23934","overrides":null,"has_social_media_links":true,"has_social_media_relations":true,"has_membership_relations":true,"has_matches":true,"has_article_relations":false,"history_and_foundation_html":"

Brentford: a football revolution with intelligence

Brentford is a London club that for a long time did not attract much attention, but suddenly began to change the perception of modern football. Founded in 1889, this club from west London has long been \"own for its own\" - with narrow stands, a modest budget and loyal fans.

Today, Brentford is no longer just a pretty underdog, but a well-organized, intelligent team that gives a fight even to the top teams. Not because he spends more — but because he thinks better.

\n
\"Brentford proves that to be competitive in the Premier League, you don't have to spend millions — you just have to have a system and a mind.\"
\n

\n","sporting_achievements_html":"

Brentford history

For a long time, the story of Brentford was written without loud headlines. The club played in lower English leagues, changed coaches, stadiums, structure, but always remained a part of local culture.

In the 1930s, the team rose to the First Division, but after the World War II they went down again and settled for a long time in League 1 and League 2 - effectively the third and fourth tiers of English football.

Everything began to change in 2012, when the club bought Matthew Benham — an analyst who decided to build football on data, not intuition. Since then, Brentford began to select players based on statistics, hire coaches with a modern vision and even rejected the classic academy.

In 2021 the club entered the Premier League for the first time in history via the play-offs, after several dramatic attempts. This became a recognition of the built system: the team not only remained in the elite, but also began to confidently beat big rivals.

\n","club_identity_html":"

Brentford Stadium

Brentford Community Stadium is the team's new home, opening in 2020. It is compact — a little more than 17 thousand seats, but modern and comfortable. Each seat has a good view, and the atmosphere combines coziness and energy.

Before that, the club played at Griffin Park — an old stadium known for its four corner pubs. Many fans remember it with nostalgia, but admit: new arena is the right step.

\n
\"Brentford Community Stadium is an example of how you can make a modern arena without pathos, but with care for the fans.\"
\n

Brentford achievements

Brentford don't have a shop window lined with trophies, but there are achievements that are more important than cups:

Exit to the Premier League in 2021 — for the first time in history.
Enshrining in the elite and stable play against top clubs.
Victory in the play-off final over Swansea that lifted the \"curse of the last step\".

Today, Brentford is a full-fledged player of the Premier League, which builds success not on random victories, but on systematicity and strategy.

\n","current_status_and_future_html":"

Brentford famous players

Ivan Toney is the top scorer who came from the lower leagues and became a candidate for the England team.
Brian Mbeumo is an example of successful scouting.
David Raya is a top-level goalkeeper, currently at Arsenal.
Christian Eriksen is a player who has bounced back from heart problems with a move from Brentford.

\n
\"They don't buy stars here - they create them here.\"
\n

Brentford interesting facts

The first club in England to abandon the classic academy, focusing on players aged 17+.
Has his own analytics company that selects players based on statistics and mental qualities.

It is worth noting that Brentford is an example of a football revolution where smart strategy, not money comes to the fore. This is a club that has proven: systematic, analysis and the right approach can lift even an underdog to the top.

\n","logo":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/500_eb70804ea7.png","mime":"image/png","caption":null,"formats":{"large_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_avif_500_eb70804ea7.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"large_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_webp_500_eb70804ea7.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"small_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_avif_500_eb70804ea7.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"small_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_webp_500_eb70804ea7.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"medium_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_avif_500_eb70804ea7.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"medium_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_webp_500_eb70804ea7.webp","mime":"image/webp"}}}}}},{"type":"match","entry":{"id":733950,"date":"2025-10-20T19:00:00.000Z","stb_id":"2025-10-19-00-00-00-deportivo-alaves-vs-valencia-cf","team_a":{"id":50105,"name":"Deportivo Alavés","short_name":"Alavés","tla_name":"ALA","type":"club","gender":"male","status":"active","official_name":"Deportivo Alavés","founded":1921,"colors":"Blue,White","nicknames":"Babazorros,El Glorioso","createdAt":"2024-11-05T10:36:11.347Z","updatedAt":"2025-08-11T20:33:21.333Z","website":"http://www.alaves.com","address":"Mendizorroza, Paseo Cervantes, s/n","address_city":"Vitoria","address_zip":"01007","locale":"en","stb_id":"deportivo-alaves","tier":null,"description":null,"top_position":null,"history_and_foundation":"## All about the club «Alaves»\n\nThis is a **professional football club**, founded in **1921**. The team is based in the city of **Vitoria-Gasteiz**, which is in the **north of Spain**, in the heart of the **Basque Country**. Despite the **modest status** and periodic appearances in the **Segunda**, the club forever wrote its name in the history of **European football** thanks to reaching the **2001 UEFA Cup final**.\n\n> \"That's when the whole world learned that Alaves is not just a team from the province, but a team with character that can create sensations.\"\n","sporting_achievements":"## The history of Alaves: the path from an unknown club to the final of the UEFA Cup\n\n**\"Alavés\"** appeared on the football map of Spain **January 23, 1921**. The first decades were difficult - the club mainly played in **regional leagues** and did not have a stable place in the **Primera**. The team made its way to the elite for the first time in **1930**, but did not stay there for long.\n\n**The real breakthrough** happened at the end of the **90s**, when the club experienced its **first \"golden decade\"**. In the **1999/2000** season, **Alavés** finished in **sixth place in La Liga**, which made it possible to enter the **European Cups** for the first time in history.\n\n**And the very next season** the Basques created a **real fairy tale**, reaching the **UEFA Cup final**. Along the way, they knocked out the likes of **Inter and Kaiserslautern**, and in the decisive match against **Liverpool** they made the opponent nervous, only losing in extra time with the score **4:5**.\n\n> \"Then there were years of decline, financial problems and even relegation to the third division. But the club gradually revived.\"\n\nIn **2016** returned to **La Liga**. And already in **2017** he reminded himself again, reaching the **final of the Spanish Cup**, where he lost to **Barcelona**.","club_identity":"## Alavesa Stadium\n\nThe club's home arena is **\"Mendisorrosa\"**, one of the **oldest stadiums in Spain**, opened in **1924**. It is located in **Vitoria-Gasteiz** and holds a little more than **19 thousand spectators**.\n\n**The main feature of the stadium** is **incredible atmosphere**. **Basque fans** do not just support the team, but **literally live every match**. There are no **\"plastic\" fans** - only **real fans** who believe in their team even in the worst of times.\n\n> \"Mendisorrosa has gone through several renovations, and the last one in 2019 made the stadium even more modern.\"\n\n**But the main thing remained unchanged** – when the stands explode after the goal of **Alavés**, it **cannot be confused with anything**.\n\n## Achievements of Alaves\n\n**Alavés** doesn't have a cupboard full of trophies, but there are **moments that are more important than any cups**:\n\n* **UEFA Cup Final (2000/01)** is an incredible story that made the club **famous throughout the world**.\n* **Final of the Spanish Cup (2016/17)** is another proof that **Alavés** can fight even with the **strongest**.\n* **Sixth place in La Liga (1999/2000)** – the best season in the Spanish championship, which opened **the door to European cups**.\n\n> \"This club doesn't have the La Liga or Champions League titles, but it has the respect it has earned for its struggles on the pitch.\"","current_status_and_future":"## Legendary players: who made Alaves' name\n\nMany interesting football players played for this club, but some left the **brightest trace** in history:\n\n1. **Herman Burgos** is a charismatic **Argentine goalkeeper** who became a wall for opponents in **the best years of the club**.\n\n2. **Javi Moreno** is the team's top scorer in the **2001 UEFA Cup final**, the author of **two goals against Liverpool**.\n\n3. **Cosmin Kontra** – **Romanian defender**, who not only played reliably in defense, but was also an important part of **attacking actions**.\n\n4. **Ibay Gomez** is one of the **most favorite players** among the fans, who returned to the club even after leaving.\n\n## Interesting facts about Alaves: what makes it special\n\n* **Hero of the Europa League that no one expected** – before the start of the **2000/01** season, no one believed that **Alavés** could reach the **UEFA Cup final**. But the club proved that **anything is possible in football**.\n\n* **One of the most emotional finals** in the history of European Cups - **4:5 against Liverpool** in **2001** became one of the **most heated finals** in the entire history of the tournament.\n\n* **Never Give Up** – In **2017**, **Alavés** eliminated **Celta** in the **2017** semifinals of the **Cup of Spain**, scoring a **winning goal in the final minutes**.\n\n* **The only club** to use the **white and blue vertical striped kit** in **La Liga** - a stylish distinction that is hard to miss.\n\n* **From relegation to European Cups** – in **1995** **Alavés** was in the **third division**, and **five years later** was already playing in the **UEFA Cup**.\n\n> \"Alavés is proof that true greatness is measured not by the number of trophies, but by the strength of the spirit and the ability to create history.\"\n\n**It is worth noting** that **Alavés** remains a **symbol of football romance**, proving that even **modest clubs** can **write great stories**. Will the team be able to **repeat the fairy tale of 2001**? One thing is certain — the **Mendisorrosa spirit** and **Basque character** make **Alavés** a special place where **dreams come true** and **small clubs** can **challenge the giants**. This is a team that **reminds** that in football **the most important thing** is not money, but **heart and faith**.","stb_internal_id":"0192fbe5-6eba-706a-b076-f68a71383e15","overrides":null,"has_social_media_links":true,"has_social_media_relations":true,"has_membership_relations":true,"has_matches":true,"has_article_relations":false,"history_and_foundation_html":"

All about the club «Alaves»

This is a professional football club, founded in 1921. The team is based in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz, which is in the north of Spain, in the heart of the Basque Country. Despite the modest status and periodic appearances in the Segunda, the club forever wrote its name in the history of European football thanks to reaching the 2001 UEFA Cup final.

\n
\"That's when the whole world learned that Alaves is not just a team from the province, but a team with character that can create sensations.\"
\n

\n","sporting_achievements_html":"

The history of Alaves: the path from an unknown club to the final of the UEFA Cup

\"Alavés\" appeared on the football map of Spain January 23, 1921. The first decades were difficult - the club mainly played in regional leagues and did not have a stable place in the Primera. The team made its way to the elite for the first time in 1930, but did not stay there for long.

The real breakthrough happened at the end of the 90s, when the club experienced its first \"golden decade\". In the 1999/2000 season, Alavés finished in sixth place in La Liga, which made it possible to enter the European Cups for the first time in history.

And the very next season the Basques created a real fairy tale, reaching the UEFA Cup final. Along the way, they knocked out the likes of Inter and Kaiserslautern, and in the decisive match against Liverpool they made the opponent nervous, only losing in extra time with the score 4:5.

\n
\"Then there were years of decline, financial problems and even relegation to the third division. But the club gradually revived.\"
\n

In 2016 returned to La Liga. And already in 2017 he reminded himself again, reaching the final of the Spanish Cup, where he lost to Barcelona.

\n","club_identity_html":"

Alavesa Stadium

The club's home arena is \"Mendisorrosa\", one of the oldest stadiums in Spain, opened in 1924. It is located in Vitoria-Gasteiz and holds a little more than 19 thousand spectators.

The main feature of the stadium is incredible atmosphere. Basque fans do not just support the team, but literally live every match. There are no \"plastic\" fans - only real fans who believe in their team even in the worst of times.

\n
\"Mendisorrosa has gone through several renovations, and the last one in 2019 made the stadium even more modern.\"
\n

But the main thing remained unchanged – when the stands explode after the goal of Alavés, it cannot be confused with anything.

Achievements of Alaves

Alavés doesn't have a cupboard full of trophies, but there are moments that are more important than any cups:

UEFA Cup Final (2000/01) is an incredible story that made the club famous throughout the world.
Final of the Spanish Cup (2016/17) is another proof that Alavés can fight even with the strongest.
Sixth place in La Liga (1999/2000) – the best season in the Spanish championship, which opened the door to European cups.

\n
\"This club doesn't have the La Liga or Champions League titles, but it has the respect it has earned for its struggles on the pitch.\"
\n

\n","current_status_and_future_html":"

Legendary players: who made Alaves' name

Many interesting football players played for this club, but some left the brightest trace in history:

Herman Burgos is a charismatic Argentine goalkeeper who became a wall for opponents in the best years of the club.
\n
Javi Moreno is the team's top scorer in the 2001 UEFA Cup final, the author of two goals against Liverpool.
\n
Cosmin Kontra – Romanian defender, who not only played reliably in defense, but was also an important part of attacking actions.
\n
Ibay Gomez is one of the most favorite players among the fans, who returned to the club even after leaving.
\n

Interesting facts about Alaves: what makes it special

Hero of the Europa League that no one expected – before the start of the 2000/01 season, no one believed that Alavés could reach the UEFA Cup final. But the club proved that anything is possible in football.
\n
One of the most emotional finals in the history of European Cups - 4:5 against Liverpool in 2001 became one of the most heated finals in the entire history of the tournament.
\n
Never Give Up – In 2017, Alavés eliminated Celta in the 2017 semifinals of the Cup of Spain, scoring a winning goal in the final minutes.
\n
The only club to use the white and blue vertical striped kit in La Liga - a stylish distinction that is hard to miss.
\n
From relegation to European Cups – in 1995 Alavés was in the third division, and five years later was already playing in the UEFA Cup.
\n

\n
\"Alavés is proof that true greatness is measured not by the number of trophies, but by the strength of the spirit and the ability to create history.\"
\n

It is worth noting that Alavés remains a symbol of football romance, proving that even modest clubs can write great stories. Will the team be able to repeat the fairy tale of 2001? One thing is certain — the Mendisorrosa spirit and Basque character make Alavés a special place where dreams come true and small clubs can challenge the giants. This is a team that reminds that in football the most important thing is not money, but heart and faith.

\n","logo":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/771_7d671f3718.png","mime":"image/png","caption":null,"formats":{"large_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_avif_771_7d671f3718.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"large_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_webp_771_7d671f3718.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"small_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_avif_771_7d671f3718.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"small_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_webp_771_7d671f3718.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"medium_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_avif_771_7d671f3718.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"medium_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_webp_771_7d671f3718.webp","mime":"image/webp"}}}},"team_b":{"id":50213,"name":"Valencia CF","short_name":"Valencia","tla_name":"VAL","type":"club","gender":"male","status":"active","official_name":"Valencia Club de Fútbol","founded":1919,"colors":"White,Orange,Black","nicknames":"Ché,Blanquinegre,Taronja","createdAt":"2024-11-05T10:36:28.032Z","updatedAt":"2025-08-11T22:15:52.748Z","website":"https://www.valenciacf.com/home","address":"Plaza del Valencia Club de Fútbol, 2","address_city":"Valencia","address_zip":"46010","locale":"en","stb_id":"valencia-cf","tier":null,"description":null,"top_position":null,"history_and_foundation":"## Football team \"Valencia\"\n\nFounded in **1919**, the team from **the city of the same name** has always been among the **main forces of La Liga**. At different times, she **fought for the championship**, experienced **financial disasters**, and trained **future stars of world football**.\n\nThis is a club that knew how to **stop giants**, win **European Cups**, and then fall into crisis and **resurrect** again. **\"Valencia\"** is always a **history of struggle**. And regardless of whether it is currently at the top or in crisis, one thing is constant: this team has a **heart** that beats stronger than all difficulties.\n\n> \"Valencia is a club that proves that true greatness is measured not only by victories, but also by the ability to rise from falls.\"","sporting_achievements":"## History of \"Valencia\": great victories and difficult times\n\n**Valencia** was born in **1919**, when a group of enthusiasts decided to create their club in a city where football was just **starting to develop**. As early as **1931**, the team reached **La Liga** for the first time, and since then almost **did not leave the elite**.\n\n**The first golden period of the club** began in the 40s**. **Valencia** won **three Spanish championships** (**1942, 1944, 1947**) and **two Spanish Cups**. The team played **attacking football** and was one of the **most dangerous opponents** in the country.\n\n**The next big boom** – the end of the **90s** – the beginning of the **2000s**. Then **Valencia** reached the **Champions League final** twice (**2000, 2001**), but lost twice – first to **Real Madrid**, then to **Bavaria** in a penalty shootout.\n\n> \"However, already in 2004, the club under the leadership of Rafa Benitez took the championship of La Liga and won the UEFA Cup, becoming the strongest team in Europe after the giants.\"\n\n**And then - the fall.** Financial problems, constant changes of coaches, selling of leaders. The club went through **difficult times**, but each time found the strength to rise. In **2019**, **100 years after its foundation**, **\"Valencia\"** did the impossible - won the **Cup of Spain**, defeating **\"Barcelona\"** in the final.\n\n**Today the team** is going through a bad period, but if we know anything about **Valencia**, it always **finds a way to come back**.","club_identity":"## Valencia Stadium\n\nThe home arena of **Valencia** is **Mestalla**, one of the **oldest and most atmospheric stadiums in Spain**. Opened in **1923**, it accommodates more than **48 thousand fans**.\n\n**What makes Mestalla special?** These are **very cool stands** that create a **pressure effect on the opponent**. The visiting players don't just feel the fans - they **literally see them**.\n\n> \"Valencia fans are some of the most loyal in Spain. They can boo their own team for a poor performance, but when they need to support them, they will do it in such a way that the stadium shakes.\"\n\n**The only thing** that overshadows the legend of **\"Mestali\"** is the **unfinished construction of the new stadium**, which has been going on since **2007**. But until that day comes, **\"Mestalja\"** remains **the real fortress of the club**.\n\n## Achievements of \"Valencia\"\n\n**Valencia** is one of **the most titled clubs in Spain**:\n\n* **Champion of Spain (6 times)** – **1942, 1944, 1947, 1971, 2002, 2004**.\n* **Cup of Spain (8 times)** – **1941, 1949, 1954, 1967, 1979, 1999, 2008, 2019**.\n* **UEFA Cup (1 time)** – **2004**.\n* **UEFA Super Cup (2 times)** – **1980, 2004**.\n* **Champions League finalist (2 times)** – **2000, 2001**.","current_status_and_future":"## Famous players of \"Valencia\": who created the history of the club\n\n**\"Valencia\"** brought up and introduced to the world **many great football players**:\n\n1. **Mario Kempes** – **Argentine forward** who brought the club **first European Cup title in 1980**.\n\n2. **Gayska Mendieta** – **symbol of \"Valencia\"** of the beginning of the **2000s**, an incredible leader of the midfield.\n\n3. **David Villa** is one of the **best strikers in the history of Spain**, who became a star in **Valencia**.\n\n4. **Santiago Cañizares** is a **legendary goalkeeper** who **saved the team** for years.\n\n5. **David Silva** is a **student of the club**, who later became a legend of **\"Manchester City\"**.\n\n## Interesting facts about \"Valencia\"\n\n1. **The oldest anthem** among **La Liga** clubs – **Valencia** has an official anthem that has been sung since the **1920s**.\n\n2. **The bat on the emblem** is the **symbol of the city of Valencia**, and its history dates back to the days of the **Reconquista**.\n\n3. **Two Champions League final defeats in a row** – **2000 and 2001** remain **the most painful moments** in the club's history.\n\n4. **Record season 2004** – **championship, UEFA Cup and UEFA Super Cup** – **best year** in modern history.\n\n5. **Dramatic struggle for survival** – in **2016** the club was almost relegated to **Segunda**, but held on.\n\n> \"Valencia reminds us that true champions are those who find the strength to fight even in the darkest moments.\"\n\n**It is worth noting** that **Valencia** remains **one of the most respected clubs** in Spanish football, despite all the **financial and sporting difficulties**. Can the team **bring back the golden days** of the early **2000s**? One thing can be said for sure — the **spirit of Mestalla** and **bat traditions** make **Valencia** a special place where **history lives** in every corner, and **faith in rebirth** never fades. This is a club that **proves** that true greatness is measured not only by **trophies**, but also by **the ability to get back up** after every fall.","stb_internal_id":"0192fbe5-afe3-758d-81d7-a8e1c8f70ed9","overrides":null,"has_social_media_links":true,"has_social_media_relations":true,"has_membership_relations":true,"has_matches":true,"has_article_relations":false,"history_and_foundation_html":"

Football team \"Valencia\"

Founded in 1919, the team from the city of the same name has always been among the main forces of La Liga. At different times, she fought for the championship, experienced financial disasters, and trained future stars of world football.

This is a club that knew how to stop giants, win European Cups, and then fall into crisis and resurrect again. \"Valencia\" is always a history of struggle. And regardless of whether it is currently at the top or in crisis, one thing is constant: this team has a heart that beats stronger than all difficulties.

\n
\"Valencia is a club that proves that true greatness is measured not only by victories, but also by the ability to rise from falls.\"
\n

\n","sporting_achievements_html":"

History of \"Valencia\": great victories and difficult times

Valencia was born in 1919, when a group of enthusiasts decided to create their club in a city where football was just starting to develop. As early as 1931, the team reached La Liga for the first time, and since then almost did not leave the elite.

The first golden period of the club began in the 40s**. Valencia won three Spanish championships (1942, 1944, 1947) and two Spanish Cups. The team played attacking football and was one of the most dangerous opponents in the country.

The next big boom – the end of the 90s – the beginning of the 2000s. Then Valencia reached the Champions League final twice (2000, 2001), but lost twice – first to Real Madrid, then to Bavaria in a penalty shootout.

\n
\"However, already in 2004, the club under the leadership of Rafa Benitez took the championship of La Liga and won the UEFA Cup, becoming the strongest team in Europe after the giants.\"
\n

And then - the fall. Financial problems, constant changes of coaches, selling of leaders. The club went through difficult times, but each time found the strength to rise. In 2019, 100 years after its foundation, \"Valencia\" did the impossible - won the Cup of Spain, defeating \"Barcelona\" in the final.

Today the team is going through a bad period, but if we know anything about Valencia, it always finds a way to come back.

\n","club_identity_html":"

Valencia Stadium

The home arena of Valencia is Mestalla, one of the oldest and most atmospheric stadiums in Spain. Opened in 1923, it accommodates more than 48 thousand fans.

What makes Mestalla special? These are very cool stands that create a pressure effect on the opponent. The visiting players don't just feel the fans - they literally see them.

\n
\"Valencia fans are some of the most loyal in Spain. They can boo their own team for a poor performance, but when they need to support them, they will do it in such a way that the stadium shakes.\"
\n

The only thing that overshadows the legend of \"Mestali\" is the unfinished construction of the new stadium, which has been going on since 2007. But until that day comes, \"Mestalja\" remains the real fortress of the club.

Achievements of \"Valencia\"

Valencia is one of the most titled clubs in Spain:

Champion of Spain (6 times) – 1942, 1944, 1947, 1971, 2002, 2004.
Cup of Spain (8 times) – 1941, 1949, 1954, 1967, 1979, 1999, 2008, 2019.
UEFA Cup (1 time) – 2004.
UEFA Super Cup (2 times) – 1980, 2004.
Champions League finalist (2 times) – 2000, 2001.

\n","current_status_and_future_html":"

Famous players of \"Valencia\": who created the history of the club

\"Valencia\" brought up and introduced to the world many great football players:

Mario Kempes – Argentine forward who brought the club first European Cup title in 1980.
\n
Gayska Mendieta – symbol of \"Valencia\" of the beginning of the 2000s, an incredible leader of the midfield.
\n
David Villa is one of the best strikers in the history of Spain, who became a star in Valencia.
\n
Santiago Cañizares is a legendary goalkeeper who saved the team for years.
\n
David Silva is a student of the club, who later became a legend of \"Manchester City\".
\n

Interesting facts about \"Valencia\"

The oldest anthem among La Liga clubs – Valencia has an official anthem that has been sung since the 1920s.
\n
The bat on the emblem is the symbol of the city of Valencia, and its history dates back to the days of the Reconquista.
\n
Two Champions League final defeats in a row – 2000 and 2001 remain the most painful moments in the club's history.
\n
Record season 2004 – championship, UEFA Cup and UEFA Super Cup – best year in modern history.
\n
Dramatic struggle for survival – in 2016 the club was almost relegated to Segunda, but held on.
\n

\n
\"Valencia reminds us that true champions are those who find the strength to fight even in the darkest moments.\"
\n

It is worth noting that Valencia remains one of the most respected clubs in Spanish football, despite all the financial and sporting difficulties. Can the team bring back the golden days of the early 2000s? One thing can be said for sure — the spirit of Mestalla and bat traditions make Valencia a special place where history lives in every corner, and faith in rebirth never fades. This is a club that proves that true greatness is measured not only by trophies, but also by the ability to get back up after every fall.

\n","logo":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/722_905bf79990.png","mime":"image/png","caption":null,"formats":{"large_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_avif_722_905bf79990.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"large_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_webp_722_905bf79990.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"small_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_avif_722_905bf79990.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"small_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_webp_722_905bf79990.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"medium_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_avif_722_905bf79990.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"medium_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_webp_722_905bf79990.webp","mime":"image/webp"}}}}}}]}

Cristian Castro: Profile