Jose Mourinho has fueled the flames ahead of Real Madrid's clash against his Benfica side at the Estadio da Luz. The two European giants meet for a second time this year but this time they do so in the playoffs of the UEFA Champions League.
Benfica secured a stunning 4-2 victory over Madrid last month on the final matchday of the competition's league phase. Their win saw them finish in the final playoff spot but prevented Los Blancos from automatic progress to the last 16.
It was a dismal night for Alvaro Arbeloa's men, who finished the game with nine men after Rodrygo and Raul Asencio were sent off. The La Liga giants have bounced back and a 4-1 win against Real Sociedad last weekend was perfect preperation.
Mourinho admits Madrid will be 'dangerous'
Mourinho produced another famous night on the European stage when Benfica defeated his former employers. The Portuguese coach is tasked with guiding his troops to another famous victory over the most successful Champions League team in history.
The former Madrid manager spoke ahead of the game about Los Blancos and how they will be out for revenge on Tuesday night. He told reporters (via Fabrizio Romano):
"We know what we did to the kings of the Champions League… they are wounded. And a wounded king is dangerous."
🚨🦅 José Mourinho on Real Madrid: “We know what we did to the kings of the Champions League… they are wounded”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 16, 2026
“And a wounded king is dangerous”. pic.twitter.com/STOugtbHzL
Madrid's win against Sociedad was a massive boost and saw Arbeloa's men move two points ahead of Barcelona before their game against Girona on Monday night. It was a display that suggested they will be up for the fight in Portugal.
Benfica come into the game off the back of two wins in a row, defeating Santa Clara 2-1 and Alverca by the same scoreline. They were held to a 0-0 draw by Tondela at the very start of February.
Mourinho's comments will serve as motivation for Madrid and prove why they are the kings of European football. Arbeloa will be without Rodrygo, Asencio (both suspended) and Jude Bellingham (injury).
Real Madrid need a statement victory
The first leg of Madrid's encounter with Benfica is one of the most important matches of the season. It has so many factors that will go a long way in determining whether Los Blancos will end the campaign successfully.
Taking advantage in the tie away from home would be the ideal outcome for Arbeloa. It would also keep the momentum going as they battle Barca for the La Liga title.
The performance put in by the visitors at the Estadio da Luz will also be of interest. Arbeloa will want to see a reaction to the wounding defeat suffered last month that caused his side to slip out of automatic qualification.