Filipa Patão prepares to lead Boston Legacy FC as head coach
- Filipa Patão has been hired as the head coach of Boston Legacy FC, which is set to begin its inaugural season in 2026.
- She has an impressive track record from her time at Benfica, leading the team to success in national and international competitions.
- Patão aims to build a competitive and supportive environment for players while engaging with Boston’s passionate fan base.
In a significant development in women's soccer, Boston Legacy FC, the newest team in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), has announced the hiring of Filipa Patão as their inaugural head coach. Scheduled to begin her role in July 2025, pending visa approval, Patão comes from a successful tenure at Sport Lisboa e Benfica, where she led the women's team for several years. Under her guidance, Benfica achieved remarkable success, including five consecutive Campeonato Nacional titles and a historic run in the UEFA Women's Champions League, making it to the quarterfinals for the first time as a Portuguese club. Filipa Patão's coaching career began in 2007 at Benfica, where she developed from youth coaching roles to manage the women's senior team. During her time with Benfica, she amassed a record of 156 wins, 28 losses, and 15 draws across all competitions. This expertise and winning mentality are key factors that Boston Legacy FC hopes to harness to build a competitive and nurturing environment for their players. As she transitions to the competitive landscape of American soccer, Patão has expressed her eagerness to embrace the challenge and engage with the passionate Boston fan base. Jennifer Epstein, controlling owner of the club, praised Patão for embodying the qualities desired for the new team's culture, highlighting her passion for player development and competitive spirit. The general manager of Legacy FC, Domènec Guasch, also noted that while winning is crucial, the club aims to foster a strong cultural identity where players can learn and grow both technically and personally. The club's return to the NWSL is also seen as a pivotal moment in the growth of women's soccer in Boston, reigniting a legacy that was previously established with the Boston Breakers. As preparations continue for the 2026 NWSL season, Patão will focus on assembling her roster and establishing a clear playing style for the team. This new chapter for Boston Legacy FC not only symbolizes a fresh start for women’s soccer in the city but also represents an opportunity for Patão to further her career as a recognized coach on an international level.