Mourinho’s Benfica Return: A Triumphant New Era
A Legendary Homecoming
The roar of the Estádio da Luz crowd on Saturday, September 20, 2025, was more than just a reaction to a goal; it was a collective welcome for a prodigal son. José Mourinho marked his return to the Benfica dugout, 25 years after his initial, fleeting tenure, with a commanding 3-0 victory over AVS in the Liga Portugal. The win was not merely three points; it was a statement of intent, a narrative-rich opening chapter to what many hope will be a glorious second act for one of football’s most charismatic figures.
The Match: A Controlled Display
The game itself was a testament to the tactical discipline Mourinho’s teams are renowned for. While the scoreline suggests a free-flowing offensive display, the victory was built on a foundation of defensive solidity and clinical efficiency. Benfica controlled the tempo from the outset, patiently probing the AVS defense and waiting for the opportune moment to strike. The breakthrough came at a crucial time, right before the halftime interval. Ukrainian midfielder Heorhiy Sudakov, a key creative force, found the net to settle any lingering nerves and send the teams into the break with Benfica in the ascendancy.
Sealing the Victory
The second half continued in much the same vein, with Benfica dictating play. The result was put beyond doubt before the hour mark when Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis calmly converted from the penalty spot, doubling the home side’s advantage. The final blow was delivered by Franjo Ivanovic, who put the finishing touches on a comprehensive team performance to seal a 3-0 rout. The emphatic nature of the win immediately propelled Benfica into second place in the Liga Portugal table, just five points behind rivals Porto with the added advantage of a game in hand.
The Mourinho Passion on Full Display
For many observers, the most telling moment of the afternoon did not involve a player. After Ivanovic’s goal secured the three points, the camera inevitably cut to the technical area. There, the 62-year-old Mourinho celebrated with the unbridled passion of a man half his age, furiously pumping his fist and unleashing a kick on a nearby water bottle cone. This raw display of emotion was a powerful symbol. It signaled that his fire for the game burns as brightly as ever and that his connection to Benfica, the club where his top-flight managerial career began decades ago, remains profoundly deep and personal.
The Road Back to Lisbon
Mourinho’s return to the Portuguese capital comes at a pivotal moment for both the coach and the club. His arrival follows a surprisingly brief tenure at Fenerbahce, which ended in his dismissal in August. Benfica, meanwhile, found themselves seeking new leadership after parting ways with manager Bruno Lage on the back of a disappointing defeat in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers. The club’s hierarchy moved decisively to appoint a figure of immense stature and experience, turning to a man who understands the immense pressure and expectations that come with managing one of Iberia’s most storied clubs.
A More Mature Philosophy
At his official presentation, Mourinho offered a intriguing glimpse into his evolved mindset. He described himself as now being more “mature” and “altruistic,” suggesting a possible shift from the occasionally confrontational style that defined his earlier career. This introspection points to a manager who is self-aware and adaptable, keenly aware that the modern game requires a different approach to man-management and media relations. His immediate impact on the team’s organization and confidence was palpable in this first outing, indicating that his core principles of tactical structure and mental resilience remain firmly intact.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The victory over AVS is an ideal start, but the path ahead is long and fraught with challenges. The immediate objective will be to maintain this positive momentum in the league and close the gap on Porto. The long-term goal, undoubtedly, is to re-establish Benfica as a dominant force not just domestically, but on the European stage as well. Mourinho’s vast experience in the latter competition will be invaluable. His return has instantly re-energized the fanbase and lifted the entire club, creating a palpable sense of optimism. This appointment is more than a managerial change; it is a cultural moment for Benfica, a bold move that intertwines the club’s illustrious past with ambitious hopes for its future. The Special One is home, and his first night back could not have gone any better.