Manager admits it’s “a great thing” even if he would happily accept defeats in exchange for title
Jose Mourinho guided Benfica through an unbeaten Primeira Liga campaign but the historic achievement was not enough to secure a place in next season’s Champions League.
Benfica completed the league season without defeat after beating Estoril Praia 3-1 on the final day on Saturday, finishing the campaign with an unbeaten record across all 34 matches. However, a league-high 11 draws proved costly as Mourinho’s side ended the season in third place behind champions Porto and runners-up Sporting.
Portugal’s allocation means only the league winners qualify directly for the Champions League group stage, while the second-placed side enters the qualifying rounds, leaving Benfica outside the competition entirely.
Mourinho chose to remain positive despite the disappointment of missing out on the Champions League.
“The unbeaten thing is a great thing,” Mourinho said. “It’s the first time in my career. Even winning eight championships, I never did it invincible.
“I would change that for the title with two or three defeats, no doubts about that. But it’s something that reflects well. The mentality of the team, the togetherness, the empathy reflects that perfectly.”
Benfica wrapped up the season in emphatic fashion, effectively settling the contest within the opening quarter-hour. Richard Rios opened the scoring after seven minutes before Alexander Bah and Rafa Silva added quick-fire goals to put Mourinho’s side firmly in control.
The game may also be Mourinho’s last in charge of the Portuguese club, having been linked with a return to Real Madrid this summer. The Spanish club are reportedly in talks with his representatives about securing a deal.
Mourinho remains under contract at Benfica until 2027, though an exit clause allows either party to end the agreement this summer.
