Mourinho Eyes Tactical Perfection as Benfica Prepare for Real Madrid Challenge

Key Takeaways:

• Benfica manager Jose Mourinho has stated his side do not require a miracle to overcome Real Madrid in the Champions League play-off first leg
• Amar Dedic and Fredrik Aursnes will be available for the crucial home tie against Real Madrid, as confirmed by Mourinho
• Goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin’s dramatic header secured a 4-2 win over Real Madrid, ensuring Benfica’s progression from the League Phase on goal difference

Benfica’s Preparation and Squad Updates

José Mourinho has expressed confidence in his Benfica squad ahead of their Champions League play-off first leg clash with Real Madrid on Tuesday. The Portuguese side made headlines in the League Phase with an extraordinary 4-2 victory over Madrid, sealed by a decisive header from goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, which allowed Benfica to progress on goal difference. As they face their Spanish opponents once again, Mourinho believes a repeat of those dramatic scenes is not necessary, emphasising tactical excellence instead.

🤍 José Mourinho: “I want to eliminate Real Madrid from the UCL…. but I really want Madrid to win La Liga, and I want Arbeloa to stay as their coach for many years”.

“Álvaro Arbeloa is a real Madridista”. pic.twitter.com/H7S9JRkVbG

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 16, 2026

Benfica fans have received further positive news, as Mourinho confirmed that both Amar Dedic, who has been sidelined for four consecutive matches, and Fredrik Aursnes, absent for the recent win against Santa Clara, will be included in his plans for the encounter. “I can confirm both are available. There’s still a training session tomorrow morning, so something unexpected could happen, but based on what I saw yesterday and today, they’re fit. Starters? That’s my plan: either they start, or they’re not even on the bench,” Mourinho stated.

Mourinho’s Reflections and Real Madrid Legacy

Mourinho, who managed Real Madrid for three years and delivered both a LaLiga and a Copa del Rey title at the Bernabeu, spoke candidly about his enduring bond with the club and its supporters. He commented on the significance of the upcoming match and his professional relationship with Madrid: “I gave everything to Real Madrid. I did good things and bad things, but I gave absolutely everything… There’s nothing with Real Madrid. I’d love to knock Real Madrid out, but I’d also love to see Alvaro (Arbeloa, manager) win the league and stay at the club for many years.”

Match Outlook and Strategies

Looking ahead to the tie, Mourinho acknowledged the immense quality and resilience of the Spanish side, labelling Real Madrid as “the number one contender to win the Champions League.” Reflecting on the tactical nuances that could define the contest, he said: “Beating Real Madrid once is already very hard, beating them twice is even harder, and three times is harder still… What I asked my players is to play with joy for being here. It’s better to play here against the great Real Madrid than against a lesser team. Let’s enjoy tomorrow’s game and hope for a result that lets us fight for the tie in Madrid. No pressure.”