Mourinho begins Benfica stint with convincing 3-0 win over AVS
Jose Mourinho’s long-awaited return to Portuguese football began with a statement victory as Benfica defeated AVS 3-0 on Saturday night. The veteran coach, back in the dugout of his boyhood club 25 years after his brief first spell, watched his side produce a dominant second-half display to seal three crucial points.
It was Mourinho’s first league match in Portugal since leaving Porto in 2004 to take charge of Chelsea, and he made sure it was memorable. Goals from Georgiy Sudakov, Vangelis Pavlidis, and Franjo Ivanovic ensured a smooth start for the “Special One” in his second stint at Benfica.
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The trip to Estadio do CD das Aves carried plenty of symbolism for Mourinho. Although many associate him primarily with Porto, Benfica was actually his first major coaching role. His initial tenure lasted just 11 games back in 2000, before a dramatic resignation.
This time, the 62-year-old cut a more composed yet passionate figure. He celebrated his side’s third goal with trademark fire, pumping his fist and even kicking a pitchside cone in delight.
How the match unfolded
Benfica’s breakthrough came just before halftime when Ukrainian midfielder Georgiy Sudakov slotted home after a spell of patient buildup. The visitors doubled their lead after the break, with Vangelis Pavlidis confidently converting from the penalty spot.
The win was sealed by Franjo Ivanovic, who capped off a strong team performance with a clinical finish. The result lifted Benfica to second place in the Primeira Liga standings, five points behind leaders Porto, but with a game in hand.
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“I feel more mature, more altruistic,” Mourinho said earlier this week at his unveiling. Saturday’s performance suggested a balance of that maturity with the same competitive edge that has defined his career.
Benfica’s Bold Coaching Switch
Mourinho’s appointment came just days after Benfica parted ways with Bruno Lage, following a shock Champions League defeat to Azerbaijani underdogs Qarabag. The club turned to their former coach, hoping his experience and winning mentality could stabilize their season both domestically and in Europe.
Mourinho’s CV is one of the most decorated in world football, with league titles and European trophies won at Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and Manchester United. His most recent job at Fenerbahce ended in August, but Benfica wasted little time offering him a return home.
What’s Next for Mourinho and Benfica?
The schedule leaves little room for easing in. Within the next two weeks, Mourinho’s Benfica will face both Porto and Sporting Lisbon, fixtures that could define the early shape of the title race.
The win over AVS provides momentum and a boost of confidence, but sterner tests await. Supporters, however, will be encouraged by the fast start and the sight of Mourinho back prowling the touchline with the same passion that made him a household name.
SportsLigue