Chelsea 1–0 Benfica: Own Goal Secures Win on Mourinho’s Return

Chelsea edged a narrow 1-0 victory against Benfica in the Champions League. The game marked the return of legend José Mourinho, who won three Premier League titles across two spells with the Blues, but an own goal from Richard Rios ruined the emotional return.

With injuries depleting the squad, Enzo Maresca was forced into several changes. Cole Palmer, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Levi Colwill were among those missing, which handed rare starts to Benoît Badiashile and Facundo Buonanotte. Academy graduate Tyrique George was given his first Champions League start, while Alejandro Garnacho and Malo Gusto also came into the side after the defeat to Brighton. João Pedro began on the bench, likely with Sunday’s clash against Liverpool in mind.

The unfamiliar Chelsea XI started nervously, nearly conceding in the seventh minute when Dodi Lukebakio’s shot struck the post after a fine stop from Robert Sánchez. But they soon settled, and in the 17th minute Garnacho’s cut-back was turned into his own net by Rios, giving the Blues an early lead. Pedro Neto came close to doubling the advantage, while George squandered a golden chance before half-time, firing straight at Trubin after being set up by Marc Cucurella.

Benfica grew into the second half and pressed hard for an equaliser, but Sánchez stood firm with a string of saves to preserve Chelsea’s advantage. The game opened up in the final 20 minutes, though neither side could convert their chances.

The result leaves Chelsea celebrating three points, but discipline remains a concern for Maresca. João Pedro was dismissed in stoppage time — making it a third red card in as many matches for the Blues. It did not cost them on this occasion, but the manager will know his side must sharpen up if they are to progress deep into the competition.