Football made history on January 21, 2023, when Portuguese referee Catarina Campos showed the first white card in a professional football match during a women's League Cup quarter-final between Benfica and Sporting CP.

The historic moment occurred at Benfica's Estádio da Luz, where the two Lisbon rivals faced each other in a highly anticipated women's football fixture.

The white card was shown in recognition of the medical teams from both clubs after they cooperated to assist a spectator who had become unwell in the stands.

Their response drew applause from spectators, highlighting a moment of solidarity and sportsmanship during a fiercely contested rivalry.

Unlike the familiar yellow and red cards, which are used to caution or dismiss players for misconduct, the white card is intended to recognise positive actions and promote fair play.

The initiative forms part of Portugal's efforts to encourage ethical conduct in sport. It seeks to recognise good behaviour by players, coaches, medical staff and other participants rather than focusing solely on disciplinary offences.

The match ended in a 5–0 victory for Benfica, who advanced in the competition.

Although the white card attracted international attention, it is not a standard disciplinary card under the universally applied Laws of the Game. Its use in this match was part of Portugal's domestic fair-play initiative.

The incident became a notable example of how football can recognise cooperation, compassion and respect alongside competition.