By Frank Ulom
LONDON (CONVERSEER) – Chelsea secured their first win of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League campaign on Tuesday night with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Benfica, making it a frustrating return to Stamford Bridge for Jose Mourinho.
The decisive moment came midway through the first half when winger Neto, outstanding throughout, picked out Alejandro Garnacho with a precise ball into the box. The Argentine’s volley deflected off Benfica defender Richard Rios and wrong-footed goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubiny, handing Enzo Maresca’s side the only goal of the match.
Benfica Threaten Early
The visitors made the brighter start, with Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez called into action on several occasions. Benfica came closest in the opening exchanges when a strike rattled the post, signalling their attacking intent. Sanchez produced a string of fine saves to preserve his clean sheet, keeping the Blues in the contest.
Chelsea gradually grew into the game, with Neto leading the charge. His early effort across goal flashed just wide before his creativity carved out the breakthrough that ultimately separated the two sides.
Maresca’s Tactical Shifts
Despite their advantage, Chelsea’s grip on the game remained fragile as Benfica continued to press. Seeking more security, Maresca introduced young talents Estevao Willian, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens early in the second half.
Estevao nearly doubled the lead with a powerful header that was brilliantly tipped over by Trubiny, while Garnacho remained a constant outlet on the break. However, Chelsea were reduced to ten men deep into stoppage time when Pedro was dismissed for a second bookable offence, adding late tension to an already nervy contest.
Mourinho’s Unhappy Return
For Mourinho, once celebrated as “The Special One” at Stamford Bridge, it was a night of frustration as his Benfica side were left to rue missed chances and an inability to break down a resilient Chelsea defence.
The win relieves pressure on Maresca after Chelsea’s opening setback in the group stage and gives the Blues momentum ahead of their next European fixture.
The Red Card
Chelsea were reduced to 10 men in the closing minutes following Joao Pedro’s red card (second yellow) in the 90+6 minutes. The third red card in three consecutive games.
