Mourinho warns that a ‘hurt’ Madrid could be a ‘threat’ in Benfica rematch…Read More…

Mourinho warns that a ‘hurt’ Madrid could be a ‘threat’ in Benfica rematch…Read More…

Benfica boss José Mourinho has delivered a stark warning ahead of his side’s pivotal UEFA Champions League play‑off showdown with Real Madrid, insisting that the Spanish giants — despite recent setbacks — remain a dangerous threat in the rematch.

The Portuguese coach described his former club as a “wounded king” in comments made at a press conference on Monday, underlining that Madrid’s surprise defeat to Benfica in their last meeting could fuel a fierce response from the 15‑time European champions.

Benfica, who host the first leg at the Estádio da Luz on Tuesday evening (20:00 GMT), stunned Real Madrid 4‑2 in their final league‑phase encounter earlier this season. That dramatic victory — secured by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin’s unbelievable 98th‑minute header — not only propelled Mourinho’s side into the knockout play‑offs but also denied Madrid an automatic place in the round of 16.

“It was a remarkable night,” Mourinho reflected, referring to the late winner that sealed Benfica’s progression. Yet the twist of that result has left Real Madrid licking their wounds and hungry for vengeance. “They are wounded. And a wounded king is dangerous,” he said, acknowledging that the Spaniards’ pride and hunger for silverware could make them even more formidable opponents this time around.

Despite the dramatic nature of their previous clash, Mourinho has been keen to temper expectations, stressing that Benfica will need a near‑perfect performance to overcome a side that remains among Europe’s elite. “Real Madrid is Real Madrid,” he said. “With all that history, knowledge, and ambition. We know what we did to the kings of the Champions League, but we must be ready for their reaction.”

Mourinho also rejected suggestions that Benfica would need a miracle to knock out their illustrious foes, insisting instead that excellence and focus will be key. “I don’t think it takes a miracle for Benfica to eliminate Real Madrid,” he added. “We need to be at our absolute best — almost perfect — but not rely on miracles.”

The rematch carries added narrative weight given Mourinho’s deep history with Real Madrid, where he served as head coach earlier in his storied career. While he has played down rumours about a return to the Santiago Bernabéu, his comments ahead of Tuesday’s game underscore a mutual respect mixed with competitive fire.

As both sides prepare to renew hostilities, the stage is set for a breathtaking encounter in Lisbon, pitting Benfica’s confidence and tactical discipline against Real Madrid’s desire to rebound and reassert their status among Europe’s powerhouses. Whether Mourinho’s troops can replicate the magic of their stunning victory in January remains to be seen — but one thing is certain: neither side will take a backward step in what promises to be one of the knockout phase’s most compelling ties.