Benfica vs Chelsea: Mourinho Returns as Both Teams Fight for Vital Champions League Points
Benfica and Chelsea clash in the Champions League on Tuesday, with both sides eager to secure vital points after losing their opening matches. Benfica appointed José Mourinho as coach following Bruno Lage's dismissal, while Chelsea grapples with injuries under Enzo Maresca.
Mourinho, a Champions League winner with Porto, returns to the dugout after guiding Chelsea to three titles during his previous spell. He takes charge of a Benfica side that sits mid-table in the Portuguese league, having lost 3-2 to Qarabag in their first European outing. Meanwhile, Chelsea's form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last five games, including a 3-1 defeat to Bayern Munich.
The Blues' injury crisis has left Maresca struggling to field his best team. Their last encounter with Benfica ended in a 3-1 Chelsea victory in extra time, following a 1-1 draw in regular time. Both teams now face a must-win situation to keep their hopes of advancing to the round of 16 alive, with only the top eight teams progressing directly.
Tuesday's match at Stamford Bridge promises to be a crucial encounter, with Mourinho's tactical nous pitted against Maresca's resilience in the face of adversity. A victory for either side could prove pivotal in their quest to qualify for the knockout stages.
