Jose Mourinho was unable to mark his return to Stamford Bridge with a win as his Benfica side fell 1-0 to Chelsea in the Champions League on Wednesday night.. . Continue..Reading. .
The former Blues manager, who led Chelsea to three Premier League titles across two spells, received a warm reception from home supporters throughout the match.
Mourinho’s name was chanted loudly on several occasions despite his team’s defeat, underlining the affection still held for him at the club.
Chelsea secure narrow win
The decisive moment came in the first half when Benfica midfielder Richard Rios turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Alejandro Garnacho.
It proved enough to give Enzo Maresca’s side their first group-stage victory following defeat to Bayern Munich.
Chelsea created further openings through wingers Pedro Neto and Garnacho but struggled to impose themselves on a Benfica side that looked threatening on the counterattack.
Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez was called upon to deny Fredrik Aursnes in the second half, while Chelsea substitute Estevao went closest to extending the lead with a late header.
Warm welcome for Mourinho
Mourinho’s return was marked by familiar scenes off the pitch. The 62-year-old greeted former Chelsea staff members and ex-players before kick-off and was serenaded by both the Matthew Harding Stand and the Shed End during the game.
At one stage, he intervened to calm Benfica supporters after Chelsea captain Enzo Fernandez was targeted with missiles while preparing to take a corner.
Despite the defeat, Mourinho downplayed the result and praised his side’s performance, insisting the gulf in resources between English and Portuguese clubs played a role.
His record at Stamford Bridge as a visiting manager now stands at one win in eight matches.If You’re Reading From Phoenix Click On Read Original at the top To Read Full Article
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