Is Mourinho on Thin Ice at Benfica What Spain is Saying
The Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam will host a crucial match on Tuesday at 17:45 (Portugal time) featuring Ajax and Benfica. Both teams are currently without a point in the UEFA Champions League after five matchdays. This game is being referred to as a ‘match of the desperate’ for two clubs in dire straits.
Benfica’s Troubling Start to the Champions League
Benfica entered the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League on a sour note. They suffered a 2-3 defeat to Qarabag at Estádio da Luz, after leading by two goals. This loss prompted the swift departure of coach Bruno Lage.
Now under the guidance of Jose Mourinho, Benfica has faced further setbacks. The team lost to Chelsea (1-0), Newcastle (3-0), and Bayer Leverkusen (1-0), leaving them at the bottom of their group.
Mourinho’s Position Under Scrutiny
Spanish newspaper Marca highlighted Jose Mourinho’s precarious position following these disappointing results. The article noted that Mourinho’s return to the Champions League has not gone as planned, describing it as a “nightmare.” With Benfica’s situation worsening, he is viewed as being ‘on thin ice’ as they prepare to face a struggling Ajax.
“Failing to secure three points against Ajax, who are also in free fall, will leave Benfica in a dire predicament,” the article warned. Ajax, currently 14 points behind the leader in Eredivisie, shares the same miserable record in the Champions League as Benfica.
Press Conference Insights
In a pre-match press conference, Mourinho emphasized the importance of winning. He remarked, “This is a fundamental game for both teams. Nine points could still allow for qualification, but our current situation is challenging.”
Mourinho acknowledged the high stakes, indicating that the match is crucial for both clubs, as they both seek to avoid further setbacks.
Current Standings and Future Prospects
Benfica and Ajax are at the bottom of their Champions League group, each with zero points. They need to recover fast to avoid elimination, with playoffs sitting just four points away. The two clubs hope to qualify for the next round, but this task appears increasingly difficult.
- Teams: Ajax & Benfica
- Date: Tuesday, 17:45 (Portugal time)
- Location: Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam
- Benfica’s Current Status: Zero points in Champions League
- Upcoming Matches: Against Napoli on December 10 at Estádio da Luz
As both teams prepare for this critical encounter, the outcome could very well determine the future of Mourinho at Benfica.
