Chelsea picked up a much-needed Champions League victory as Richard Rios’ first-half own goal proved the difference in a tight contest against Jose Mourinho’s Benfica at Stamford Bridge.
It was a night full of subplots, with Mourinho making yet another emotional return to west London. The home supporters welcomed him with chants of affection, but they were just as eager to see their side finally end a poor run of European results.
The breakthrough came in the 18th minute. Alejandro Garnacho fizzed a low cross back into the six-yard box, and Colombian midfielder Rios, under pressure, could only deflect the ball past his own goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin.
It was a cruel blow for Benfica, who had defended stoutly up to that point, but there was little Rios could do to avoid the mishap. For Chelsea, the goal came as a relief in a game where chances were otherwise hard to come by.
Despite dominating possession, Chelsea rarely tested Trubin directly. Garnacho had a couple of half-chances but wasted them, while youngster Estevao Willian’s late header forced the Benfica keeper into a decent save.
Benfica themselves offered little attacking threat. Their best moment arrived early in the second half when Fredrik Aursnes found space, but the assistant’s flag quickly went up, and replays suggested the offside decision was tight.
Mourinho’s frustration was clear on the touchline. His side remained compact and disciplined but lacked the cutting edge needed to trouble Chelsea’s back line.
Late drama came when substitute Joao Pedro was sent off in stoppage time for a second yellow card. It was Chelsea’s third red card in four matches, though this time it came too late to alter the result.
Manager Enzo Maresca, under pressure after a string of poor results, will take comfort in this victory. It was Chelsea’s first Champions League win since March 2023 and a timely boost before their weekend clash with Liverpool.
Enzo Fernandez, captaining Chelsea against his former club, was central to the performance. The Argentine endured a hostile reception from Benfica fans, who hurled objects as he prepared to take corners.
But Fernandez had the last laugh, helping to create the chance that led to the decisive own goal and showing the leadership Maresca demands. He has now been directly involved in 16 goals in his last 27 Chelsea appearances.
The 24-year-old’s form has become crucial, particularly with Cole Palmer sidelined through injury. Fernandez’s drive and grit in midfield gave Chelsea an edge they have sorely lacked in recent weeks.
For Mourinho, the return to Stamford Bridge ended in familiar disappointment. Apart from his famous 2010 win with Inter Milan, he has struggled to get results here with visiting sides, and Benfica became the latest to fall short.
Chelsea may not have dazzled, but the win lifts spirits at the Bridge. For now, Maresca has breathing space, and the Blues have a foundation to build on as their European campaign continues.
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