Mourinho Slams Benfica: “Wanted 9 changes” after pale victory

Mourinho Harshly Criticizes Benfica Players Despite Victory

Benfica coach José Mourinho held nothing back after the 2-0 victory over Atlético CP last Friday, expressing his dissatisfaction with the attitude of his players during the match. Despite the victory in the fourth round of the Taça de Portugal, Mourinho revealed that he considered making up to nine changes at halftime due to the “unacceptable” attitude of some players. Richard Ríos and Vangelis Pavlidis’ late goals secured the victory for Benfica against the third division team.

In the first half, Benfica didn’t play, and worse than not playing, Benfica wasn’t on the field.

José Mourinho

Mourinho, known for his strong post-match statements, emphasized the lack of commitment and attitude of his players, negatively comparing their performance to the level of competition seen in training. The coach highlighted the “absolutely ridiculous turnovers” from the first minute of the match.

The coach explained that he planned to make four substitutions at halftime, although he wanted to make even more. According to Mourinho, the need to make so many changes reflected the seriousness of the situation, not because of the risk of losing the match, but because of his concept of professionalism. In the second half, Mourinho made four changes, which, according to him, transformed the team’s attitude, making it more aggressive, intense, and dynamic. Mourinho, who joined Benfica earlier this year, has led the team to third place in the Liga Portugal, behind Porto and Sporting. The technician also commented on the victory:

It was a question of whether the goal would come in the 50th, 60th, 70th or 80th minute, but it had to come as it did.

José Mourinho

Mourinho concluded that it was a fair victory and congratulated Atlético.