Benfica manager José Mourinho has attributed his team’s narrow 1–0 defeat to Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League to a costly defensive lapse on Tuesday, 30, 2025.
The Portuguese tactician, making an emotional return to Stamford Bridge, watched as his former club edged past Benfica thanks to an 18th-minute own goal from Richard Ríos, who mistakenly turned Alejandro Garnacho’s cross into his own net.
Speaking after the game, Mourinho admitted his side performed well but insisted one error made the difference on the night.
“We lost because of a single defensive mistake. At this level, one mistake is enough to cost you the game,” Mourinho told reporters.
The 62-year-old, who previously won three Premier League titles with Chelsea, was warmly received by fans but maintained his focus on Benfica’s campaign.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, meanwhile, acknowledged that his team had to “win ugly” due to injuries and pressure but praised their resilience in securing all three points.
The result leaves Chelsea in a stronger position in their Champions League group, while Benfica face an uphill task to recover in the coming fixtures.
