Champions League Playoff: Wounded Kings’ Madrid Will Be Dangerous – Mourinho

Jose Mourinho is preparing for a challenging encounter, warning that Real Madrid will be a “dangerous” opponent as his Benfica side gears up for a pivotal Champions League play-off.

The Special One finds himself on the opposite touchline, aiming to compound the woes of his former club following Benfica’s surprising victory in the league phase.

At a press conference held at the Estadio da Luz, Mourinho downplayed the significance of Benfica’s historic 4-2 victory earlier in the season, understanding that it has only fueled Real Madrid’s desire for revenge. “They are wounded. And a wounded king is dangerous,” Mourinho stated. “We must approach this tie with intelligence, ambition, and confidence.”

The loss in Lisbon was a devastating blow for Real Madrid, dropping them from third to ninth in the league table and forcing them into this precarious play-off round. Mourinho acknowledged the chaotic nature of that match, which was punctuated by Anatoliy Trubin’s dramatic late equaliser.

“Trubin won’t be in the attack at the Luz stadium this time,” he joked, lightening the atmosphere while emphasising his familiarity with knockout football. “I’ve been involved in these kinds of ties throughout my career, and I know that no first-leg result is definitive.”

Despite the psychological edge following their earlier triumph, Mourinho faces a potential selection crisis in defence. Right-back Amar Dedic’s fitness is under scrutiny, with the Bosnian having been pivotal to Benfica’s European campaign this season.

His availability is complicated by the upcoming observance of Ramadan.

On a positive note, midfielder Fredrik Aursnes has recovered from a muscle injury and could feature in the match. For Alvaro Arbeloa and Real Madrid, the return to Lisbon offers an opportunity to atone for their previous defeat, which cost them an automatic spot in the round of 16.

“The tie will undoubtedly be demanding,” Mourinho conceded, reflecting on the significance of their last encounter, which marked his first victory against Madrid. Now, as the two heavyweights prepare to clash again, Benfica aims to prove that their previous win was no fluke.