Benfica manager José Mourinho has issued a stark warning ahead of the UEFA Champions League play-off clash against Real Madrid, describing the Spanish giants as “wounded and dangerous” following their 4-2 defeat to Benfica last month.
The Portuguese side secured their knockout-stage spot in dramatic fashion, highlighted by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin’s 98th-minute header that sealed the stunning victory in Lisbon, leaving the 15-time European champions outside automatic qualification.
“They are wounded. And a wounded king is dangerous,” Mourinho said. “We will play the first leg with our heads, ambition, and confidence. We know what we did to the kings of the Champions League.”
Benfica, currently third in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, will host the first leg at Estadio da Luz on Tuesday at 20:00 GMT. Last month’s match saw Real Madrid reduced to nine men, with Raul Asencio and Rodrygo sent off in stoppage time, allowing Trubin to score his historic header past Thibaut Courtois.
Mourinho acknowledged the challenge ahead, stressing:
“The tie will be very demanding, without a doubt. People often think you need a certain result in the first leg. I say there is no definitive result.”
Despite last month’s victory marking Mourinho’s first win over his former club, Real Madrid remain a formidable force, currently topping La Liga, two points ahead of rivals Barcelona. The upcoming tie promises high drama as Benfica aim to capitalise on momentum while Madrid seeks revenge.
