Benfica previously secured a significant 4-2 home victory against Real Madrid in the final group stage match at Da Luz. This result propelled Benfica to second place in their group, earning them the final knockout stage spot based on goal difference, and preventing the 15-time European champions from directly qualifying for the round of 16. Ahead of their upcoming rematch in Lisbon, Coach Jose Mourinho declared that Benfica does not need a miracle to eliminate Real Madrid in the Champions League play-offs.

Mourinho characterized Real Madrid as a formidable, yet vulnerable opponent. "Real is a wounded king, and a wounded king is very dangerous", he stated during the press conference before the Champions League play-off first leg. "We will approach the first leg with a clear mind, ambition, and confidence. We know what we did against the kings of the Champions League."

While acknowledging Real Madrid as the favorites, Mourinho expressed his belief in Benfica's progression. The Portuguese coach affirmed, "I do not think Benfica needs a miracle to eliminate Real. We need to perform at our absolute best, almost perfectly, even though perfection does not exist. But it is not a miracle."

Coach Jose Mourinho during the press conference before the Benfica vs. Real Madrid Champions League play-off first leg on 16/2. Photo: Profimedia

The last group stage match featured a rare moment when goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a header in the eighth minute of added time to secure the win. "This time, Trubin will not be joining the attack", Mourinho quipped.

Mourinho, who managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, winning one La Liga title, one Copa del Rey, and one Spanish Super Cup, expressed pride in his time at the Bernabeu. However, he dismissed speculation about a potential return to coach Real Madrid, noting he has one year remaining on his Benfica contract with an early termination clause, but no contact with his former club.

The 63-year-old coach hopes Benfica achieves a favorable result in the first leg to play the second leg in Madrid on 25/2 without pressure. "We will enjoy this match", he said. "I expect Real to live up to its image as the top contender for the Champions League title. Defeating them once was difficult, twice will be even harder. But we deserve to be here. Perhaps facing Real is even better than encountering a weaker opponent."

Meanwhile, Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa adopted a cautious stance ahead of the match at Da Luz. "We are not thinking about anything else. This is a new match, and the sole objective is victory", he emphasized.

Responding to Mourinho's comment about Real being a "wounded king", the Spanish coach stated, "No, no. We always think about winning. Real's goal is not just to eliminate Benfica, but to win the Champions League. Advancing past this round is not about revenge, but about getting closer to that goal."

Hong Duy (according to ESPN)