José Mourinho, head coach of Benfica, has shared his belief that his team can pull off a surprise against Real Madrid in the pivotal playoffs of the Champions League. The first leg of this knockout round will take place at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon, where Mourinho pointed out the importance of their last encounter, in which Benfica triumphed over Madrid with a convincing 4-2 scoreline just three weeks ago. This notable victory allowed Benfica to secure a spot in the playoffs while Madrid, a historically dominant team in the tournament, faced the embarrassment of not qualifying directly for the knockout stage.

Mourinho's quotable remarks emphasize that the Portuguese squad is aware of the psychological and competitive advantage they may hold against Madrid, which he characterizes as "wounded" following their recent defeat. The coach's statement underscores the unpredictability of football, especially in knockout stages where a single match can pivot the fortunes of teams. However, he was pragmatic, conceding that despite their recent win, Real Madrid remains the favorite in this upcoming matchup.

The clash is significant not only for the teams involved but also for the broader context of the Champions League, where elite teams like Real Madrid typically dominate. Benfica’s push to challenge this norm may resonate with audiences, considering the storied rivalry and the stakes at hand in European football. The outcome could have implications for both teams' reputations and future prospects in the tournament, and the anticipation surrounding this match is palpable.