Lanús style themselves the ‘world’s biggest neighbourhood club’, and a stroll around their home explains why as Flamengo arrive for the Recopa. The city breathes the team, with residents describing a family spirit that shapes everyday life.
According to Globo.com, Lanús has around 462,000 residents, is one of the smallest municipalities in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area and has the highest population density. The area has also struggled with violence in recent years.
Behind La Fortaleza, the ground refurbished in recent years, sit a public square and the Lanús Velodrome. Nearby, a cultural centre hosted a club exhibition in July 2025. Regular social initiatives help deepen the club’s bond with its community.
Streets around La Fortaleza feel calm compared with central Buenos Aires. The stadium is the focal point, with murals and maroon paint everywhere, from posts to tributes linking Maradona to club idols and landmark moments, including the 2025 Copa Sudamericana win over Atlético-MG.
At the club’s restaurant beside the social headquarters, shirts, posters and historic match tickets line the walls. Staff speak of living the club daily, and owner Pablo says he has run the place since 1992, closely tied to supporters, players and coaches.
Fans such as Santino call Lanús family and the neighbourhood their friends, adding that Flamengo supporters are welcome. Matchdays are seen as an escape, with locals meeting to play football, share mate and gather at the club. The first leg is on Thursday at 21:30, with the return at the Maracanã next week.
