Jose Mourinho’s much-anticipated return to Stamford Bridge resulted in defeat as his Benfica aspect misplaced 1-0 to Chelsea within the Champions League.
The one aim of the sport got here within the first half when Richard Ríos turned the ball into his personal internet after strain from Chelsea’s assault. It was a scrappy strike, however sufficient at hand Enzo Maresca’s crew three very important factors.
Mourinho, again in west London for the primary time since his spells with Manchester United and Tottenham, was warmly welcomed by the Chelsea supporters. The Portuguese coach, who famously led the Blues to a number of Premier League titles after arriving from Porto in 2004, waved to the gang however couldn’t ship a memorable end result for Benfica.
The guests had early possibilities, with Dodi Lukébakio and Richard Ríos testing Robert Sánchez within the Chelsea aim, however they pale as the sport wore on. Benfica not often threatened within the second half, and Mourinho’s crew regarded in need of concepts in assault.
For Chelsea, the win was much-needed after current league defeats to Brighton and Manchester United. Accidents meant Maresca needed to area a youthful aspect, however they confirmed resilience and held agency even after João Pedro was despatched off in stoppage time.
Mourinho, now 62, reduce a calmer determine on the touchline than in his previous Chelsea days. This time there was no tactical masterclass or late drama – solely a reminder that the Stamford Bridge crowd nonetheless maintain deep affection for his or her former supervisor, even in defeat.
