Successful comeback for Mourinho at Benfica

José Mourinho’s comeback as coach at Benfica Lisbon was a success.

September 21, 2025

From: dpa

The 62-year-old star coach's team won 3-0 (1-0) in the domestic league against AVS Futebol SAD, who are now bottom of the table. "The important thing today was the win," said Mourinho. He wanted to help the players overcome their recent negative experiences, and they did a better job of that in the second half.

As early as Tuesday, the record champions can move within two points of league leaders FC Porto with a home win against Rio Ave Vila de Conde. Their rivals from northern Portugal have already played one game more. Mourinho led FC Porto to Champions League glory in 2004.

Franjo Ivanovic scored the 3-0 for Benfica. © ANSA / MANUEL FERNANDO ARAUJO

Mourinho signed a contract with Benfica, which he briefly managed in 2000 after parting ways with then-coach Jupp Heynckes, midweek, running until the summer of 2027. Previous coach Bruno Lage resigned following the 2-3 Champions League home defeat to FK Karabach Agdam. Mourinho himself was forced to leave Fenerbahçe Istanbul just a few weeks ago after the team failed to qualify for the Champions League.

Keywords Soccer Jose Mourinho Benfica