Jose Mourinho Outlines Benfica’s Strategy Against “Wounded” Real Madrid Ahead of Champions League Playoff

Jose Mourinho, manager of Benfica, has shared his tactical approach ahead of the UEFA Champions League playoff first leg against Real Madrid on Tuesday night.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Mourinho emphasized that Benfica will approach the game with intelligence, ambition, and confidence, mindful of the challenge posed by the La Liga giants.

“I say there is no definitive result. We will play the first leg with our heads, ambition, and confidence,” Mourinho said.
“We know what we did to the kings of the Champions League. They are wounded. And a wounded king is dangerous.”

Benfica secured a stunning 4-2 victory over Real Madrid in the group stage, forcing the Spanish side into this playoff tie to determine which club advances to the Champions League last-16.

Opinion: Wounded Kings and the Psychology of European Football

Mourinho’s description of Real Madrid as a “wounded king” captures one of football’s enduring truths: setbacks can be both a vulnerability and a motivator. While Benfica will carry confidence from their previous win, they must respect Real Madrid’s pedigree in Europe—15 Champions League titles do not come by accident.

The clash will likely be decided not just by tactics, but by mentality. Benfica must balance ambition with discipline, exploiting Madrid’s recent fragility without underestimating their resilience. Mourinho’s experience in high-stakes European matches gives Benfica an edge in preparation, but as always in football, the pitch will be the final arbiter.

For fans, the matchup promises drama, tactical intrigue, and a reminder that in the Champions League, even the “kings” can be tested—and occasionally, toppled.