Mourinho: "I Want to Eliminate Real Madrid from the Champions League and Hope Arbeloa Stays with Them Because He is a True Madridista"
T.E (Elbotola)
16 February 2026at17:45
Benfica coach José Mourinho has stated that he is working diligently to guide his team past Real Madrid in the play-off round for the UEFA Champions League last 16.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Portuguese coach said: "I want to eliminate Real Madrid from the Champions League, but I hope they win the Spanish league title."
He continued, speaking about the technical leader of the Royal Club: "I hope Arbeloa remains their coach for many years because he is a true Madridista."
Benfica is set to host Real Madrid at the Estádio da Luz tomorrow, Tuesday, at 20:00 GMT, for the first leg of the Champions League play-off round for the last 16.
Q&A
What are José Mourinho's intentions regarding Real Madrid in the Champions League?
Mourinho explicitly stated his goal is to eliminate Real Madrid from the UEFA Champions League play-off round with Benfica, despite also hoping they secure the Spanish league title. More details on his strategy are in the article.
When is the Benfica vs Real Madrid Champions League match scheduled?
The first leg of the Champions League play-off round between Benfica and Real Madrid is set for tomorrow, Tuesday, at 20:00 GMT, hosted at the Estádio da Luz.
