When José Mourinho, the 62‑year‑old Portuguese manager, stepped onto the touchline at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, the atmosphere was electric. The former Chelsea Football Club manager was back at his old headquarters, this time leading Benfica in a UEFA Champions League group‑stage clash. A solitary own‑goal in the first half handed the hosts a 1‑0 victory, extending their perfect record against the Portuguese side to six wins from six meetings. The result mattered because Chelsea’s group looks tight, with upcoming duels against Naples, Atalanta and Barcelona sure to test their ambitions.
Match Overview and Key Moments
Kick‑off was scheduled for 15:00 local time, and the first half saw Chelsea dominate possession, with a 58 % share according to Opta. The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when a misplaced clearance from Benfica’s defender ricocheted into his own net – the only goal of the night. The own‑goal, credited to Nicolás Otamendi, sparked a roar from the home crowd.
Midway through the second half, Benfica’s forward Vangelis Pavlidis forced a header that forced the Chelsea goalkeeper into a spectacular save, but the ball fell harmlessly to the back of the net. Tension rose when João Pedro, a recent signing for Chelsea, saw red in the 68th minute for a reckless challenge on Andre Silva. The dismissal left the Blues with ten men for the final 20 minutes, yet they held firm.
Injury Crisis and Squad Selection
On the sidelines, Enzo Maresca, the new Chelsea boss, was juggling a litany of injury concerns. Star winger Cole Palmer missed training after a hamstring strain, while midfield dynamo Moisés Caicedo remained doubtful following a knock in the previous Premier League defeat to Brighton. The manager’s decision to start Enzo Fernández in central midfield paid off, as his composure helped keep Benfica’s pressure at bay.
Benfica, meanwhile, entered the match on the back of a 2‑1 Primeira Liga win over Gil Vantiago, with Pavlidis scoring a brace. Their lineup featured a compact 4‑2‑3‑1, relying on veteran center‑back Nicolás Otamendi to marshal a younger defensive line that included André Santos. The Portuguese side’s recent form under Mourinho – two wins and a draw in his first three games – had them perched just a point behind league leaders Porto.
Mourinho’s Emotional Return
The narrative surrounding the evening was unmistakably personal. Mourinho’s first Champions League appearance for Benfica took place in the very stadium where he lifted the trophy as Chelsea’s manager in 2012. In the post‑match press conference, the Portuguese veteran admitted, "Coming back here, surrounded by memories, it was bittersweet. The lads gave it their all, but football is a game of fine margins." He also praised Maresca’s tactical discipline, noting, "Chelsea were organized, and that’s what earned them the win."
Fans in the stands – many holding vintage scarves from Mourinho’s 2004 and 2014 Chelsea eras – gave a standing ovation when he left the pitch. The moment underscored how intertwined personal histories and club identities can become in European competition.
Implications for the Group Stage
With three points now secured, Chelsea sit second in Group C, level on points with Napoli but ahead on goal difference. The victory also alleviates pressure on Maresca, who had been under scrutiny after a 3‑1 loss to Brighton that left the Blues with only 42 % of shots on target despite 58 % possession.
For Benfica, the defeat means they must rely on a win against Barcelona in the next fixture to stay in contention. Their upcoming league clash with Porto will also be a crucial test of Mourinho’s long‑term project. If the Portuguese side can tighten up defensively – a hallmark of Mourinho’s philosophy – they could still mount a deeper run in the tournament.
Historical Context and Statistics
- Chelsea have now won six consecutive meetings against Benfica, a +7 goal aggregate across those games.
- This was Mourinho’s first Champions League appearance as a rival manager since leaving Chelsea in 2015.
- Both clubs entered the match with 58 % possession for Chelsea and 47 % for Benfica, illustrating a fairly balanced midfield battle.
- Benfica’s win‑less streak in the competition this season stands at two games.
- Enzo Fernández has now contributed to two clean sheets in his first three Champions League outings.
What Comes Next?
Looking ahead, Chelsea will travel to Napoli for a decisive group match on October 15. A win there could see them top the group and earn a more favorable draw in the knockout phase. Meanwhile, Mourinho’s Benfica travels to Barcelona on November 5, where a victory would keep their hopes alive.
Both managers have hinted at possible tactical tweaks. Maresca mentioned a shift to a 3‑4‑3 formation to accommodate returning full‑backs, while Mourinho said he will "look at adding more width" against the Catalan side.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the result affect Chelsea’s chances of advancing?
The three points move Chelsea onto 6 points, level with Napoli but ahead on goal difference. A win in the upcoming Napoli fixture could see them finish top of Group C, securing a more favorable knockout draw.
What does the loss mean for Mourinho’s Benfica?
Benfica now sit third in the group with two points. They must win against Barcelona and likely need a slip‑up from Napoli to stay in the competition, putting extra pressure on Mourinho’s defensive set‑up.
Who were the key performers on the pitch?
Enzo Fernández anchored the midfield for Chelsea, while the own‑goal from Nicolás Otamendi decided the match. For Benfica, Vangelis Pavlidis was the most threatening attacker, forcing several chances before halftime.
What was the impact of João Pedro’s red card?
Pedro’s dismissal reduced Chelsea to ten men for the final 22 minutes, but the defensive shape remained intact, showing Maresca’s tactical discipline and the squad’s depth.
When is the next meeting between the two clubs?
The next encounter will be in the group’s final round on November 5, when Benfica faces Barcelona. A direct clash between Chelsea and Benfica is not scheduled until the potential knockout stages.
