Mourinho Breaks the Spell in Amsterdam
Benfica fans finally have something to cheer about in this season’s Champions League. On Tuesday night, José Mourinho—one of football’s most decorated managers—secured his
first Champions League win with Benfica, guiding the Portuguese giants to a 2-0 victory over Ajax in Amsterdam. This long-awaited triumph comes after a rocky start to the group stage, with Benfica previously winless in their first four matches.
Samuel Dahl opened the scoring early, setting the tone for a disciplined performance. Leandro Barreiro sealed the win with a late goal, earning Benfica their
first three points of the 2025-26 Champions League campaign. The result keeps their slim hopes of advancing alive, with Mourinho insisting after a recent defeat,
“Nobody can convince me that we’re out.”
What This Means for Benfica’s Season
This win is more than just three points—it’s a lifeline. Benfica now sits on three points from five games, still trailing in the group but with renewed belief. Their next Champions League clash is a crucial showdown against fellow strugglers Napoli on December 10. With three matches left, every point is vital if Benfica hopes to break into the top 24 and reach the knockout phase.
The victory also offers a morale boost for a club with a storied European history but recent struggles on the continental stage. Benfica’s players, including standout performer Dahl (voted Player of the Match), emphasized the importance of “looking forward and working even harder” in post-match interviews.
Mourinho’s Impact and Benfica’s Ambitions
Mourinho’s arrival at Benfica was met with high expectations. Known for his tactical acumen and ability to win big matches, he’s tasked with restoring Benfica’s reputation as a European powerhouse. The club, which boasts a record 38 Primeira Liga titles and two European Cups, has a massive global following and a proud tradition of success.
This season, however, has tested the patience of fans and management alike. Early Champions League losses—including a disappointing home defeat to Qarabag—sparked criticism and concern. Mourinho’s first European win with Benfica may mark a turning point, but the road ahead remains challenging.
Off the Pitch: A Bold New Vision for Estádio da Luz
While the team battles on the pitch, Benfica is also making headlines off it. The club recently unveiled a
transformative masterplan for Estádio da Luz, aiming to position the stadium as a premier international sports and entertainment destination. The project promises world-class fan and community facilities, signaling Benfica’s ambition to remain at the forefront of European football both on and off the field.
What’s Next for Benfica?
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Champions League: Benfica faces Napoli on December 10 in a must-win match to keep their knockout hopes alive.
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Domestic Ambitions: The club continues to chase silverware in the Primeira Liga, where they remain one of Portugal’s most decorated teams.
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Stadium Revamp: Fans can look forward to a modernized Estádio da Luz, enhancing the matchday experience and community engagement.
Benfica’s season is far from over. With Mourinho at the helm and a renewed sense of purpose, the Eagles are fighting to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite. The next few weeks will be decisive—not just for their Champions League fate, but for the club’s broader ambitions.
Sources
1. Ajax 0-2 Benfica (Nov 25, 2025) Game Analysis - ESPN
2. S.L. Benfica - Wikipedia
3. Follow the latest news from SL Benfica
4. Football and Other Sports Tickets - SL Benfica
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