Mourinho Prepares Benfica for Champions League Clash Against Real Madrid

omidbasir- José Mourinho has characterized Real Madrid as a “wounded king” following their surprising loss to Benfica. He believes that it will not take a miracle for Benfica to challenge the Spanish giants once again in the Champions League.

In a dramatic turn of events, Benfica secured a 4-2 victory over Madrid in the final round of the league phase, which earned them the last spot in the playoffs, while simultaneously knocking the 15-time champions out of the eight automatic qualification places for the round of 16.

The two teams will meet again in Lisbon on Tuesday for the first leg of the knockout stage. “They are wounded,” Mourinho remarked on Monday. “A wounded king is dangerous. We will approach the first leg with our heads held high, armed with ambition and confidence. We know what we achieved against the kings of the Champions League.”

While Mourinho acknowledged that Real Madrid remains a strong favorite, he insisted that Benfica could prevail if they perform at their utmost level. “I don’t believe it takes a miracle for Benfica to eliminate Real Madrid. What we need is to reach our highest level of performance—close to perfection, which is, of course, unattainable. But miracles? No,” he stated.

“Real Madrid is a footballing powerhouse, rich in history, ambition, and knowledge. The only parallel is that we are also two giants. Beyond that, there is little else. However, football has its own magic, and we believe we can win.”

Mourinho’s side recently achieved a sensational victory in Lisbon, partly owing to a last-minute header by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, which secured their place in the knockout stage based on goal difference. “Trubin won’t be leading the attack this time,” he joked.

The coach also addressed speculation about a potential return to Madrid, despite Vinícius Júnior’s praise, which claimed that Mourinho had significantly influenced the club’s history during his tenure (2010-2013). “I don’t wish to fuel nonexistent rumors,” Mourinho said. “The reality is that I have one year remaining on my contract with Benfica, a unique agreement signed during the club’s presidential election process. It includes a clause that either party can easily invoke to terminate it. There is zero involvement with Real Madrid.”

Mourinho expressed his desire to eliminate Real Madrid, but also hoped for Alvaro Arbeloa’s success in LaLiga, recognizing his capability to coach the prestigious club.

Reflecting on his own history with Madrid, Mourinho stated, “I gave everything to Real Madrid. I poured my heart into it. While I may have experienced both successes and setbacks, my commitment was unwavering. When a professional departs a club with such a sentiment, it often leads to a lifelong connection. Even after 12 years, I still feel that bond.”

He anticipates a different demeanor from Los Blancos, who appointed Arbeloa last month following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso, and are currently riding a wave of three consecutive league victories. “I expect to face the Real Madrid that is a prime contender for the Champions League crown,” Mourinho said. “Defeating Real Madrid once is a significant challenge; overcoming them twice is vastly more difficult, and doing so in a knockout situation is even more daunting. Their motivation to win the Champions League, rather than merely eliminating Benfica, serves as their greatest asset for this match.

“For our part, we emerged victorious in our last meeting and understand why. However, we recognize that the upcoming match will not mirror the previous one, as they have made considerable progress as a team in a short period.

“My request to my players is to approach the game with the joy that accompanies those who deserve to be here. Facing the great Real Madrid is preferable to competing against a lesser team.”

The return leg is scheduled for February 25 at the Bernabeu stadium. “We will embrace tomorrow’s match,” Mourinho concluded. “We hope to achieve a result that leaves us feeling positive, and we will travel to Madrid ready to compete, filled with joy and without pressure.”