LISBON - The Elon University men's soccer team is spending its 2019 spring break abroad, taking part of the Elon Global Experience this week in Spain and Portugal. Keep up with the program in during its international and cultural learning and playing experience as members of the team post daily blogs of their adventure at elonphoenix.com.
 
Fans can also follow the team on Twitter and Instagram and browse through the photo album on Facebook.

Day 2

Our first full day in Portugal was definitely a success. After finally getting some much needed rest, we began our day with a trip to Sporting Portugal's training complex. On the way, the bus crossed over the 25 de Abril Bridge, which was designed by the same company that built the Golden Gate Bridge, and we also saw the statue of Jesus Christ, built by the Catholic Church during World War 2. 
 
At Sporting Portugal's facilities, we started with a training session run by some on the club's coaching staff. We learned a lot from the coaches about their training structure and style of play, and it was also great preparation for our first game tomorrow. Afterwards, the team ate lunch in the club's cafeteria and received a tour of the complex. It was awesome to learn about how the club operates from the academy all the way to the first team.
 
We ended our day at S.L. Benfica's stadium, where we watched Portugal play Serbia in a 2020 Euro Qualifier. There were over 50,000 fans at the game, and the home team was clearly the fan-favorite. Even though Ronaldo came off injured in the first half, Portugal created most of the chances. The game with a 1-1 draw, but Portugal definitely deserved to win. After the game, we came back to the hotel to rest and get ready for tomorrow.

By Sam Bacon