“Mourinho analyzes Benfica’s victory and highlights the drama without Aursnes.”

José Mourinho did not hold back in his comments following Benfica’s 2-0 victory over Nacional at the Estádio da Luz, in a press conference that revealed much more than just the final score. The Portuguese coach provided a detailed analysis of his team’s performance, addressing everything from offensive pressure to the impact of missing key players like Aursnes and Barreiro, as well as the investment in young talents like Gonçalo Moreira.

Mourinho had no doubts in highlighting Benfica’s tactical superiority and intensity during the match. “There were 24 shots, 8 on target and well-placed, 15 corners, a lot of dominance, a lot of pressure. It was a fast game with a lot of ball recovery,” he stated, emphasizing that the 2-0 result “reflected what happened on the field,” although he acknowledged that Benfica could have increased their lead, particularly in the first half and at the start of the second.

When asked about the impatience of the fans regarding the lack of additional goals, Mourinho was unequivocal: “The fans were like me. We all wanted more. But more was not happening. We are all together in that feeling.” To try to change that dynamic, the coach made four substitutions at once, a decision that reflected his ambition to secure a more emphatic victory.

The prolonged absence of two midfield pillars, Barreiro and Aursnes, was another topic addressed seriously by the coach. “Not having one… okay… not having two starts to border on drama for us. Not having both borders on the dramatic.” However, Mourinho highlighted the gradual return of the players, with Barreiro completing the match and Aursnes coming on in the second half, contributing to the team’s balance.

The press conference also brought a special moment for Benfica fans: the debut of young Gonçalo Moreira. Mourinho explained that the young player’s entry in the final minutes was not just a symbolic gesture, but a deserved reward. “The contribution of coming on four minutes from the end for his development as a player is zero, but it is a reward he deserves.” The coach made it clear that Moreira will have an increasing role in the future, integrating into the first team’s pre-season and becoming part of the ‘small elite’ from Seixal.

Regarding the immediate future, Mourinho revealed that Moreira will continue to be developed both in the B team, where he faces experienced opponents in Liga 2, and with the first team, gaining physical and technical rhythm. “I hope to give him an opportunity for growth until the end of the season. Today was just to celebrate, but I want to provide real opportunities to play.”

Finally, the question regarding the recovery of defender Tomás Araújo for the derby was addressed with realism: “I would say he is hardly recoverable, but I’m not saying no.” The direct response reflects the coach’s care in not creating false expectations, keeping the focus on preparing the team for the challenges ahead.

In summary, José Mourinho’s analysis of Benfica’s victory over Nacional was a mix of praise for the dominance displayed, concern over important absences, and optimism regarding the integration of young talents. This discourse reveals the usual ambition and demands of the coach, leaving fans eagerly awaiting what is to come in this decisive season.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.