Cult Kits resident travel photographer Kane Hulse takes us on a match day experience through his camera lens by visiting one of Portugal's greatest clubs. And as normal, his travels do not disappoint.
A master of fan portraits and capturing match day vibes, Kane takes us on an assault of the senses, this time in Lisbon. We caught up with Kane post his trip to find out what he saw and gout up to.
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Cult Kits: We want to know about your trip to Portugal. Tell us, had you been to Portugal or Lisbon before this trip?
Kane Hulse: This was my first time in Portugal and by default first time in Lisbon, I’ve been to Spain about twenty times but never next door so it was great to cross the border.
CK: Nice. Why did you go?
KH: I went there for a couple of shoots and enjoy some winter sun. Originally, I wanted to go to the Arsenal vs. Sporting Lisbon match on Tuesday, but tickets were like gold dust so, I thought, why not go on the weekend? Sporting Lisbon were playing at home against Santa Clara. Sporting has been banging them in all season—they just beat Man City so it made sense to go and see Sporting.
CK: And how was the match?
KH: It was great for the spectator. I walked in, and the crowd was angry. Santa Clara were winding Sporting Lisbon up—taking ages for goal kicks and throw-ins—and Lisbon weren’t creating anything. Santa Clara went 1-0 up, so Sporting needed to push, and the atmosphere inside the stadium got very tense.
CK: How did the atmosphere at the stadium compare to other matches you’ve been to?
KH: It felt elegant for a football stadium. As I walked out the concourse the whole stadium was up singing with a green and white scarf held out proudly, it felt fresh and even the toilets were these beautiful pinewood panels—nothing like I’ve ever seen and it didn’t feel like a typical football stadium. The ultras had split into their different sections and the singing and flag waving went on all game which was magic to watch alongside.
CK: Did you meet any interesting people while you were there?
KH: Yeah, I met a few characters. One guy I photographed had "Bounded by Blood" tattooed on his forehead, along with these other wild tattoos on his face. He was part of one of the Sporting ultra groups. Then there was Hugo and Diana who were brother and sister, Hugo was in the Directivo Ultra Group and they helped me get to the stadium and with tickets. They even invited me to come in with them for the next visit which means I’ll be going again Directive style.
CK: Would you go to see another Sporting match?
KH: 100% It’s a beautiful stadium, great atmosphere and a proper fan base kitted out.
CK: What was the environment like before the game?
KH: It was buzzy. People were outside in bars, in the streets, all wearing green and white. There were food trucks selling chestnuts and bifanas. I ordered a bifana, thinking it was beef, but I’m still not sure what piece of meat it actually was. If anyones got an idea what that looks like in the image i’d love to know myself so answers on a postcard please.
CK: What were some of the favourite shirts you saw people wearing there?
KH: One standout was a green and white Adidas Sporting Lisbon shirt from around 1995-96. There was also some beautiful Cristiano Ronaldo pieces from his early days, a neon pink design was a stunner and the and lime green Botano shirts to finish it off.
CK: Did you face any challenges or opportunities as a photographer capturing this game?
KH: They didn’t let cameras into the stadium but otherwise, it’s about being brave, talking to people, and getting the shots. Football breaks language barriers and the badge goes a long way.
CK: Did you have a brief for the trip?
KH: I had a loose brief, but you can’t over-plan. Football matches are so dynamic, and you have to adapt to the atmosphere. One moment, you’re lost in the streets, and the next, you’re eating a bifana and chatting with ultras.
CK: Would you go to a Benfica match next?
KH: I’d like to see their stadium—it’s incredible when you drive past. I’d love to compare but I’ll be honest I felt at home with the Sporting crew.
CK: What’s the next stadium or team you’d like to see?
KH: Real Betis or Atletico Madrid in Spain, then a Lazio- Rome derby in Italy.
CK: Would you recommend Sporting stadiums and fan culture to other football fans?
KH: Absolutely! Everyone is in green and white merch, even in late November. The streets are buzzing, and the atmosphere is fantastic.
CK: Did this trip inspire any new ideas for your work?
KH: Yes, it inspired me to keep photographing ultras. Their dedication to the game is fascinating, how are you going to tattoo your face if you’re not dedicated to that life.
CK: Perfect! Thanks for sharing, Kane.
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You can view Kane's body of work here.
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