Mourinho Sends Warning to Real Madrid Ahead of Crucial Champions League Clash

José Mourinho, head coach of SL Benfica, made it clear on Friday that his team will not back down against Real Madrid in their upcoming UEFA Champions League matchup, despite the gap in pedigree and experience between the two clubs.

The Portuguese manager spoke at a press conference, emphasizing that although qualification for the next round is complicated, Benfica will give everything to compete for a victory and deliver a strong performance against the Spanish giants. Mourinho acknowledged Real Madrid’s elite status but stressed that his team will approach the match with responsibility and ambition, fully aware that even in difficult situations, giving maximum effort is non-negotiable.

Mourinho also reinforced the idea that Benfica, while currently facing certain “limitations” compared to Europe’s biggest clubs, will not take the field with fear. His message was direct: “When Benfica plays, everything must be left on the pitch.” He added that the team is prepared to fight until the end of the group stage.

The match against Real Madrid will take place on the final matchday of the Champions League group stage and is crucial for Benfica’s hopes of advancing. A victory would be vital to climb the standings and keep qualification hopes alive.

Mourinho, who arrived in Lisbon with the mission of restoring Benfica’s presence in European competitions, has consistently pushed his squad to maintain a high-level competitive mentality. He has urged his players to treat every match like a final, regardless of the opponent or circumstances. With Real Madrid as the challenge and pressure mounting on the final day, Benfica will be aiming for a positive result that could keep their hopes of reaching the round of 16—or at least securing a playoff spot—intact. True to his style, Mourinho made it clear that nothing will be taken for granted.